Oenone | Alfred Tennyson | Study Guide

Author: Alfred Tennyson

 

Year: 1832

 

Type: Poem

 

Genre: Dramatic monologue

 

About Title:

"Oenone" is a poem by Alfred Tennyson, inspired by Greek mythology. It tells the story of Oenone, a nymph who was deserted by her lover Paris when he pursued Helen of Troy.

 

Characters:

Oenone: The narrator of the poem, a nymph and former lover of Paris.

Paris: The prince of Troy, who leaves Oenone to pursue Helen of Troy.

Summary:

"Oenone" is a poem written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, first published in 1832. It's based on the Greek mythological character Oenone, a nymph who was the first wife of Paris, the prince of Troy.

The poem is a dramatic monologue spoken by Oenone as she laments the loss of Paris's love and his betrayal. In the poem, Oenone recalls the time when she and Paris lived together happily in the woods, where she nursed him back to health after he was wounded by a wild boar.

However, their happiness is shattered when Paris abandons Oenone to pursue Helen of Troy, leading to the infamous Trojan War. Oenone expresses her feelings of anger, betrayal, and heartbreak, lamenting the loss of her love and the betrayal of her trust.

Despite her pain, Oenone also reflects on the bittersweet memories of their time together and the beauty of their love. She expresses a sense of resignation to her fate, acknowledging that she cannot change the course of events.

Through its lyrical language and emotional depth, "Oenone" explores themes of love, loss, and betrayal, offering a poignant portrayal of a woman grappling with the pain of abandonment and rejection.

 

Symbols:

The forest: Symbolizes the innocence and purity of Oenone's love for Paris, as well as the natural world from which she feels disconnected after his departure.

Helen of Troy: Represents temptation and betrayal, as well as the destructive power of desire and passion.

Themes:

Love and Betrayal: Explores the themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal in the context of Oenone's relationship with Paris.

Regret and Resentment: Examines the emotions of regret and resentment that arise from being abandoned by a loved one.

Nature and the Divine: Reflect on the relationship between humans and the natural world, as well as the influence of fate and the gods on mortal affairs.

Revenge and Redemption: Considers the desire for revenge as a response to betrayal, as well as the possibility of forgiveness and redemption.

Overall Discussion:

"Oenone" is a powerful and emotionally resonant poem that explores themes of love, betrayal, and the human experience. Through its vivid imagery and poignant language, Tennyson brings to life the pain and anguish of Oenone as she grapples with the betrayal of her lover, Paris. The poem invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of love, even in the face of heartbreak and betrayal.