Easter Wings | George Herbert | Study Guide

Author: George Herbert

 

Year: 1633

 

Type: Poem

 

Genre: Religious poetry

 

About Title

George Herbert's "Easter Wings" is a profoundly spiritual and visually striking poem that explores themes of redemption, renewal, and the human condition. Written in the form of shaped poetry, the poem's physical structure mirrors its thematic content, creating a unique and immersive reading experience.

 

Characters

The speaker: Herbert himself, articulates his profound faith and devotion through the poem's intricate language and imagery.

 

Summary

"Easter Wings" is a meditative reflection on the Christian themes of salvation and rebirth, framed within the context of the Easter season. The poem takes the form of two wing-shaped stanzas, symbolizing the speaker's aspiration for spiritual elevation and transcendence. Each stanza consists of short, alternating lines, creating a visually striking pattern reminiscent of angelic wings.

 

In the first stanza, the speaker reflects on humanity's fallen state and the need for divine grace to lift them from sin and suffering. The imagery of the "fall" and "flight" evokes the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden, as well as the redemptive promise of Christ's resurrection.

 

The second stanza depicts the speaker's desire for spiritual renewal and transformation, symbolized by the image of the "sunne of righteousness" shining upon them. Through faith and devotion, the speaker hopes to rise above earthly cares and ascend to heavenly glories, like a bird soaring on outstretched wings.

 

Symbols

Wings: Symbolize the speaker's longing for spiritual elevation and transcendence, as well as the redemptive power of Christ's resurrection.

Flight: Represents humanity's desire to rise above sin and suffering through divine grace and salvation.

Sunne of righteousness: Symbolizes the radiant glory of God's love and mercy, illuminating the path to spiritual enlightenment and renewal.

 

Themes

Redemption and renewal: "Easter Wings" explores the Christian themes of salvation and rebirth, emphasizing the transformative power of faith and devotion.

Human frailty and divine grace: The poem reflects on humanity's fallen state and the need for divine intervention to lift them from sin and suffering.

Spiritual aspiration: Herbert's poem expresses the speaker's longing for spiritual elevation and transcendence, symbolized by the imagery of wings and flight.

 

In conclusion, "Easter Wings" is a timeless masterpiece of religious poetry, renowned for its exquisite language, innovative structure, and profound spiritual insights. Through its rich imagery and evocative symbolism, the poem continues to inspire readers to contemplate the mysteries of faith, redemption, and the human condition.