T.S. Eliot - The Hollow Men Lines 19-38

This video is part of the Perfecting Poetry series, focusing on T.S. Eliot's 'The Hollow Men'. It explores Greek mythology and classical allusions, analyzing Part II of the poem. The lesson delves into themes, imagery, and symbolism, highlighting the poem's exploration of human souls and their fate. The video concludes with a preview of upcoming lessons.

What is the significance of the river Acheron in the context of 'The Hollow Men'?

• It represents a place of eternal happiness.

• It is a metaphor for life's challenges.

• It is a river in the underworld that souls must cross.

• It symbolizes the journey to enlightenment.

How does the poem's narration change in Part 2?

• It changes from a collective voice to an individual perspective.

• It becomes a dialogue between two characters.

• It shifts from first-person to third-person.

• It remains a collective voice throughout.

What does the broken column metaphor in the poem allude to?

• The rise of modern technology.

• Shelley's poem 'Ozymandias'.

• The construction of ancient cities.

• The strength of human civilization.

In the poem, what do the cypress trees symbolize?

• Joy and celebration.

• Hope and renewal.

• Growth and prosperity.

• Mourning and death.

What does the fading star symbolize in the persona's dream?

• A new beginning.

• The end of a journey.

• A sign of good fortune.

• A loss of faith and guidance.

What is the persona's reaction to the eyes in the poem?

• He eagerly seeks them out.

• He is indifferent to them.

• He avoids them out of fear or shame.

• He confronts them with courage.

What does the persona disguise himself as in the poem?

• A mythical creature.

• A scarecrow in a field.

• A knight in armor.

• A wise old man.

What poetic technique does Eliot use to create a sense of discomfort in the poem?

• Alliteration.

• Rhyme scheme.

• Onomatopoeia.

• Enjambment.

How does the poem's free verse structure affect its rhythm?

• It creates a steady and predictable rhythm.

• It disrupts the rhythm, creating an unsettling effect.

• It enhances the musicality of the poem.

• It follows a strict metrical pattern.

What theme does Eliot explore by comparing modern civilization to a broken column?

• The strength of human achievements.

• The fragility and vanity of mankind.

• The permanence of cultural heritage.

• The inevitability of progress.