1.1.2

Key Ideas

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Key Ideas in Ozymandias

The poem delivers a powerful message about the ephemeral (temporary) nature of power. It also highlights the insignificance of humans compared to nature and time.

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Arrogance of rulers

  • Shelley points out the arrogance of Ramses (also spelt Ramesses) and other leaders, whose power has led to pride and the mistreatment of others.
  • The sculptor satirises (uses humour or irony to criticise) Ozymandias, shown by the phrase, “the hand that mocked them…”.
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Power of art

  • By describing how nothing remains of Ozymandias but a work of art (statue) and collection of words (inscription), Shelley suggests that art, language and literature are far more enduring (lasting) than human power.
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Timeless message

  • There is a certain timelessness to the poem.
  • You could argue that its messages about the abuse of power and the temporary nature of political authority are as relevant today as when Shelley was writing.

Jump to other topics

1Ozymandias - Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822)

2London - William Blake (1757-1827)

3Storm on the Island - Seamus Heaney (1939-2013)

4Exposure - Wilfred Owen (1893-1918)

5War Photographer - Carol Ann Duffy (born 1955)

6My Last Duchess - Robert Browning (1812-1889)

7The Prelude - William Wordsworth (1770-1850)

8Charge of the Light Brigade - Alfred Tennyson

9Bayonet Charge - Ted Hughes (1930-1998)

10Poppies - Jane Weir (Born 1963)

11Tissue - Imtiaz Dharker (Born 1954)

12The Emigree - Carol Rumens (Born 1944)

13Kamikaze - Beatrice Garland (Born 1938)

14Checking Out Me History - John Agard (Born 1949)

15Remains - Simon Armitage (Born 1963)

16Grade 9 - Themes & Comparisons

16.1Grade 9 - Themes & Comparisons

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