Ozymandias, Shelley: Summary, Analysis & Themes

"Ozymandias," written by the renowned 19th-century British poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, was first published in 1818 in *The Examiner of London* under the pen name "Gilrastes." In this sonnet, the speaker recounts a meeting with a traveler from an ancient land. The traveler describes the ruins of a massive statue of a great pharaoh, highlighting not only the shattered remains scattered across the sand but also the desolate surroundings. The combination of the vast desert and the decaying statue underscores the poem’s central theme: the futility of human endeavors. It also explores themes of the transient nature of power, fate, and the inevitable downfall of rulers.

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Ozymandias Poem text by Percy Bysshe Shelley

I met a traveller from an antique land,
Who said—“Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. . . . Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;
And on the pedestal, these words appear:
My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;
Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”

Ozymandias Summary

The poem's speaker encounters a traveller from an ancient land who describes the remains of a colossal statue in the desert. The statue consists of two large stone legs without a connecting torso, and nearby lies the fragmented face with a scornful expression—capturing the emotions of the subject in enduring stone. The sculptor skillfully recreated the subject's feelings, almost mocking the subject's cruelty in the process. The pedestal bears an inscription proclaiming the might of Ozymandias, the King of Kings, boasting of his accomplishments and challenging powerful onlookers to despair at his superiority. The surroundings reveal an endless barren desert, emphasizing the transience of grandeur.

'Ozymandias' by P. B. Shelley is a poem that explores the theme of the fleeting nature of power and human achievements. The poem tells the story of a traveler who recounts his discovery of a decaying statue of a once-powerful ruler. Through this, Shelley reflects on the inevitable decline of all things, no matter how grand they once were.

The Traveler's Story

The poem begins with the speaker recounting a story told by a traveler from an "antique land." This introduction immediately sets a sense of ancient history and mystery.

• Traveler's Origin: The traveler comes from a distant, old land, possibly Egypt, given that "Ozymandias" is the Greek name for Ramses II.
• The Setting: The traveler describes the vast desert where he saw the ruins of a great statue.

The Statue of Ozymandias

In the traveler’s story, he describes seeing a large statue that was once of the great Egyptian king, Ramses II, also known as Ozymandias. This statue, which now lies broken and half-buried in the desert, was once a symbol of the king’s power and authority.

• The Statue’s Appearance: The statue is described as being impressive, but now it is only a fragmented relic of its former grandeur.
• Power and Arrogance: The king’s face is depicted as having a "sneer" with a "cold command," indicating a ruler who was both powerful and ruthless.

The Legacy of Ozymandias

Despite Ozymandias’s former greatness, the statue’s ruin and its placement in the vast desert symbolize the transience of human achievement. The traveler reveals that, aside from the statue, nothing remains of the ruler’s empire. The land around the statue is barren, and all that is left of the mighty ruler is his faded image in stone.

• The Statue’s Inscription: The traveler recalls an inscription on the statue’s pedestal, which reads, "Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair." This suggests that Ozymandias once believed his empire would last forever, and he challenged others to marvel at his greatness.
• The Irony: The irony is that instead of inspiring awe, the statue now serves as a reminder of the king’s fleeting power and the passage of time. The "works" Ozymandias boasted about have long since disappeared, and his empire has crumbled away.

The Theme of Impermanence

The main theme of the poem is the inevitable decay of all human achievements. Shelley contrasts the king's boastful words with the ruined state of the statue. Through this contrast, he underscores the idea that no matter how powerful or influential a person is, time will eventually erode their legacy.

• The Ruin of Power: The poem suggests that power, no matter how vast or seemingly eternal, will eventually fade away.
• Nature’s Dominance: The desert, which continues to stretch on "vast and bare," serves as a powerful symbol of nature’s dominance over human creations. Even the greatest rulers cannot escape the ravages of time and nature.

Conclusion

In the end, 'Ozymandias' serves as a meditation on the impermanence of life and the futility of human pride. The statue, which once symbolized a ruler’s glory, now lies broken and forgotten, a powerful reminder that all things are subject to the passage of time.

• Human Pride: The poem warns against hubris and the belief that one’s achievements will last forever.
• Nature’s Power: Shelley’s depiction of the vast, unchanging desert highlights the ultimate power of nature over human ambition.

Meaning of 'Ozymandias' by P. B. Shelley

'Ozymandias' carries an extended metaphor throughout the poem, exploring the inevitable decline of power and the impermanence of human achievement. The poem contrasts the once-great empire of Ozymandias with the desolate, barren desert that surrounds the statue of the ruler. Shelley uses this metaphor to convey the message that no empire, no matter how powerful or influential, can last forever.

The Desert as a Metaphor

In the poem, the desert is a central symbol. It represents the decline and eventual fall of all empires, civilizations, and human accomplishments. The desert is barren, vast, and timeless, serving as a stark contrast to the once-glorious empire of Ozymandias. The lack of growth or life in the desert emphasizes the decay of power over time.

• Symbol of Decay: The desert symbolizes the inevitable decay of human achievements. No matter how rich or powerful a civilization is, time will erode it, leaving only remnants behind.
• Timeless Nature: The endless expanse of the desert also represents the timeless force of nature, which remains unchanged even as human empires rise and fall.

The Statue and Its Message

The statue of Ozymandias stands as a testament to the ruler’s past greatness, yet it is now broken and half-buried in the sand. The inscription on the pedestal, boasting of the ruler’s power and dominion, is an ironic reminder of his hubris. The statue, once a symbol of authority and strength, now serves as a symbol of the fleeting nature of power.

• Symbol of Human Pride: The statue represents Ozymandias’s arrogance and belief that his power was eternal. However, its ruin symbolizes the futility of such pride.
• Irony: The inscription that commands other rulers to “look on my works, ye mighty, and despair” is especially ironic. Instead of inspiring awe, it now only highlights the ruler's fall from glory.

The Allusion to a Powerful Ruler

By referencing Ramses II, one of Egypt's most powerful pharaohs, Shelley uses an allusion to show that even the mightiest rulers are not exempt from the forces of time and nature. Ramses II was known for his military conquests and monumental achievements, yet his empire, like all others, eventually crumbled.

• Allusion to Ramses II: Shelley’s choice to reference Ramses II, known for his immense power, serves to emphasize the poem’s theme that no amount of might or wealth can prevent the decline of a civilization.
• Fleeting Power: The reference to such a powerful figure highlights how even those at the top of the world’s hierarchy will eventually face the ravages of time.

Conclusion

Overall, the poem illustrates the concept that power is transient, and even the greatest empires will eventually fade into obscurity. Shelley uses the desert, the statue, and the allusion to Ozymandias to remind readers that human pride and ambition can never overcome the forces of time and nature.

• Theme of Impermanence: The message of the poem is clear: no matter how powerful, all human accomplishments are temporary.
• Power of Nature: Nature, symbolized by the vast desert, is a force that endures, while human achievements eventually disappear.

Structure and Form of 'Ozymandias' by P. B. Shelley

'Ozymandias' is a Petrarchan sonnet, but it deviates from the traditional structure in certain aspects, making it unique and memorable. The poem follows the sonnet's fourteen-line format, and it is written in iambic pentameter, a metrical pattern common to sonnets. However, the rhyme scheme and structure differ slightly from the standard Petrarchan sonnet, adding to its distinctiveness.

Form and Meter

• Form: Sonnet — 'Ozymandias' follows the general form of a sonnet, consisting of 14 lines, often associated with themes of love, beauty, and mortality. In this case, Shelley uses the form to explore the impermanence of power.
• Meter: Iambic Pentameter — The poem is written in iambic pentameter, which means each line contains five feet (or beats), with each foot consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable (e.g., da-DUM). This meter is often used in sonnets and contributes to the rhythm and flow of the poem.

Rhyme Scheme

The rhyme scheme of 'Ozymandias' is ABABACDC EDEFEF, which is slightly different from the traditional Petrarchan sonnet structure. A typical Petrarchan sonnet follows the rhyme scheme ABBAABBA in the first eight lines (the octave), and the final six lines (the sestet) can vary, but they often follow a CDCDCD or CDECDE pattern. Shelley’s choice to alter the rhyme scheme creates a sense of innovation and defiance, aligning with the theme of the poem.

• Traditional Petrarchan Sonnet Rhyme Scheme: The traditional Petrarchan sonnet has a rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA in the octave, with variations in the sestet, which often follow a CDCDCD or CDECDE pattern.
• 'Ozymandias' Rhyme Scheme: Shelley uses ABABACDC EDEFEF, diverging from the expected pattern. This change in the rhyme scheme helps to make the poem stand out, adding to its distinctiveness and memorability.

Why the Variation in Rhyme Scheme?

By defying the traditional Petrarchan sonnet form, Shelley may have been symbolically representing the corruption of authority and the breakdown of traditional structures, much like the fall of the mighty empire of Ozymandias. The deviation in form mirrors the destruction of power, as the once-great empire is now reduced to ruins. The altered rhyme scheme serves as a subtle reflection of the poem's themes of decay, impermanence, and the transient nature of authority.

• Symbol of Corruption: The deviation from the traditional rhyme scheme can be seen as a metaphor for the corruption and collapse of authority, aligning with the poem’s exploration of the fragility of power.
• Setting 'Ozymandias' Apart: The unique rhyme scheme helps to distinguish 'Ozymandias' from other Petrarchan sonnets, enhancing its memorability and impact on the reader.

Conclusion

While 'Ozymandias' follows the general structure of a sonnet, its deviation from the traditional rhyme scheme and its use of iambic pentameter make it stand out. The form and meter contribute to the overall effect of the poem, emphasizing the themes of decay, impermanence, and the inevitable decline of even the most powerful rulers.

Literary Devices in 'Ozymandias' by P. B. Shelley

In 'Ozymandias,' Shelley employs a variety of figurative devices to enhance the emotional and intellectual impact of the poem. These devices help convey the themes of decay, impermanence, and the futility of human pride, making the poem more engaging and thought-provoking. Below are some key literary devices used in the poem:

Enjambment

• Definition: Enjambment is when a line of poetry continues into the next line without a pause or punctuation at the end of the line.
• Example: Shelley uses enjambment extensively in the poem, particularly in lines 2-8. The lines flow into each other, creating a sense of surprise and movement. This continuous flow mirrors the inexorable passage of time and the erosion of power.
• Effect: The enjambment creates a sense of unexpectedness and urgency, emphasizing the poem's theme of the fleeting nature of power.

Alliteration

• Definition: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity.
• Examples: Some examples of alliteration in the poem include:
  • “an antique”
  • “stone/ Stand”
  • “sunk a shattered”
  • “cold command”
• Effect: The use of alliteration contributes to the musical quality of the poem and reinforces the harshness and power associated with the image of Ozymandias' statue and his reign.

Metaphor

• Definition: A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as."
• Example: The phrase “sneer of cold command” is a metaphor that compares the ruler’s expression of disdain and superiority to the ruthlessness of a military commander.
• Effect: This metaphor enhances the image of Ozymandias as a tyrant who ruled with an iron fist, emphasizing the cruelty and arrogance of his leadership.

Irony

• Definition: Irony occurs when there is a contrast between expectation and reality, often highlighting absurdity or contradictions.
• Example: The lines “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair! / Nothing beside remains” present a stark irony. Ozymandias, who once commanded a vast empire, now has only a broken statue to represent his power.
• Effect: The irony underscores the transient nature of power and the ultimate futility of human pride. It makes the reader reflect on the hubris of rulers who believe their power is eternal.

Synecdoche

• Definition: Synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part represents the whole, or vice versa.
• Example: In the poem, the “hand” and “heart” are used as synecdoche, representing the entirety of Ozymandias’ character and his empire.
• Effect: This use of synecdoche emphasizes the idea that the ruler’s power is both embodied and symbolized by these physical aspects of the statue, making it a more personal and immediate representation of his authority.

Allusion

• Definition: An allusion is a reference to a well-known person, event, or work of art, often drawing on shared cultural knowledge.
• Example: The line “My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings” alludes to an inscription found in the works of the Greek historian Diodorus Siculus in his 'Bibliotheca historica'. This inscription was purportedly part of the actual monument of Ramses II in Egypt.
• Effect: This allusion provides historical context and lends an air of authenticity to the poem, reinforcing the idea that the ruler, Ozymandias, was once a powerful historical figure.

Conclusion

By using these literary devices, Shelley enhances the emotional and intellectual depth of 'Ozymandias.' The devices not only contribute to the poem's aesthetic appeal but also deepen the thematic exploration of the fleeting nature of power, the arrogance of rulers, and the inevitable decline of even the most mighty empires.

Historical Context of "Ozymandias"

Percy Bysshe Shelley’s "Ozymandias" is not merely a poem about an ancient Egyptian ruler; it can also be seen as a sharp commentary on the political landscape of Shelley’s own time. Known for his political activism and critiques of power, Shelley subtly warns the leaders of England that their ambition and authority, much like that of Ozymandias, are destined to crumble with time. The poem reflects Shelley’s belief in the inevitable decline of all rulers and empires, urging them to reconsider their arrogance and the eventual futility of their pursuit of glory.

Composition of the Poem

The origins of "Ozymandias" are tied to a literary challenge between two poets. In 1817, while at Shelley’s house for Christmas, Shelley and fellow poet Horace Smith decided to challenge each other to write a sonnet based on a passage from Diodorus Siculus’s *Bibliotheca Historica*. The passage reads:

King of Kings Ozymandias am I. If any want to know how great I am and where I lie, let him outdo me in my work.

This inscription, attributed to the ancient ruler Ozymandias (Ramses II), served as the inspiration for the challenge. Shelley’s version, in which the traveler recounts his encounter with the ruins of Ozymandias’s statue in the desert, embodies the hubris of the king and the passage of time. The poem was first published in *The Examiner* on January 11, 1818, and it immediately struck readers for its vivid imagery and philosophical depth.

Political and Personal Significance

Though the poem is often read as a simple tale of ancient ruins, it can also be interpreted as a critique of the British Empire and its rulers. In the early 19th century, England was at the height of its imperial power, but Shelley, a passionate political critic, might have seen the eventual collapse of such power as inevitable. By drawing parallels between Ozymandias’s downfall and the transient nature of political power, Shelley subtly critiques the pride and overreach of contemporary rulers.

Comparison with Horace Smith’s Version

It is worth noting that Horace Smith, who was also part of the poetic challenge, wrote his own version of the sonnet, titled *"Ozymandias"*. While Smith’s version shares some similarities with Shelley’s, such as the use of the inscription and the theme of the fleeting nature of power, Shelley’s work is considered more powerful and enduring. Shelley’s use of vivid imagery, irony, and the juxtaposition of the fallen empire with the eternal desert creates a more poignant and universal message about the futility of human ambition.

In summary, "Ozymandias" is not only a timeless meditation on the collapse of great powers but also a product of Shelley’s sharp political insight. His experience with literary challenges and his desire to critique the power structures of his time contributed to the depth and lasting significance of this remarkable poem.

Literary Context

Shelley's poem draws inspiration from various sources, including the description of the statue by the ancient Greek historian Diodorus Siculus. Diodorus Siculus' account and Shelley's paraphrasing suggest a classical influence. Travel books like Pococke’s Description of the East (1743) and Savary’s Letters on Egypt (1787) also provided insights into Ozymandias.

Notably, Walter Coulson, an editor of 'The Traveller,' visited the Shelleys in 1817. It remains uncertain whether Coulson brought news of Belzoni's discoveries or if he was the inspiration for 'the traveller' in Shelley's poem. The blending of various sources in Shelley's imagination adds intrigue to the poem's creation.

Line 1 Analysis

The opening line of ‘Ozymandias’ reads:

I met a traveller from an antique land,

This line sets the stage for the entire poem and introduces the speaker, who is telling the story from his perspective. The use of the pronoun "I" indicates that the speaker is recounting an event, creating a personal connection with the reader. Here's a closer breakdown of this line:

• Structure: The line flows naturally and is part of the larger narrative structure of the poem. Although it rhymes, making it distinct from prose, the text still has a storytelling quality that draws the reader in.
• Ambiguity: The phrase "from an antique land" introduces some initial ambiguity. The reader might initially wonder whether the traveler is from the land of antiquity (Egypt) or if he has simply visited it. This ambiguity piques the reader's curiosity and builds suspense. The word "antique" evokes a sense of ancient times, adding a layer of mystery to the traveler’s origins.
• Context: The title of the poem, "Ozymandias," provides the key to understanding that the "antique land" refers to ancient Egypt. The name "Ozymandias" is the Greek name for Ramses II, a powerful pharaoh, linking the traveler’s origin to Egypt, one of the oldest and most renowned civilizations in history.

This opening line establishes the traveler as someone with knowledge of an ancient, long-gone civilization, setting the tone for a poem about the impermanence of power and the inevitable decay of empires.

Lines 2-4 Analysis

Lines two through four are a continuation of the traveler’s vivid description of the statue he encountered in Egypt. The lines read:

Who said—“Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. . . . Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,

These lines are much clearer than the first and provide more concrete imagery of the scene. The lines are part of the dialogue the traveler shares with the poet's persona. The description is powerful, setting the stage for the traveler’s account of the fall of a once mighty ruler.

• Imagery: Shelley creates a striking image with phrases like "vast and trunkless legs of stone" and "half sunk a shattered visage." These images evoke a sense of destruction and abandonment, showing how the once grand statue is now decaying in the harsh desert. The statue’s broken state symbolizes the inevitable downfall of empires and rulers.
• Symbolism: The "two vast and trunkless legs of stone" represent the remnants of a ruler’s once grand power. The absence of a torso or complete body emphasizes the idea of impermanence and decay. The "shattered visage" further symbolizes the lost grandeur of a mighty king, now reduced to fragments.
• Facial Expression: The traveler notes that the face of the statue displays a "frown" and "sneer." This description suggests a ruler who was ruthless, prideful, and possibly arrogant. The frown indicates disdain or contempt, while the sneer conveys the ruler's commanding nature. These facial expressions help the reader understand the ruler’s tyrannical rule.
• Theme of Power and Pride: The broken statue conveys the message that no matter how powerful or prideful a ruler might be, time and nature will inevitably cause their downfall. The grand statue, which once symbolized the ruler’s greatness, is now a mere shadow of its former self, emphasizing the transience of power.

In these lines, Shelley uses vivid imagery to introduce the decay of the statue and, by extension, the fleeting nature of human achievement. The contrast between the once-powerful ruler's frown and the present desolation of his statue underlines the poem's central theme: the inevitable decline of all earthly power.

Lines 5-8 Analysis

Lines five through eight continue the traveler’s reflection on the statue, shifting the focus from the pharaoh himself to the sculptor who created the image:

And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;

These lines reveal deeper insights into the nature of the ruler and the sculptor’s skill in capturing his personality.

• Power of the Sculptor: The traveler comments on how the sculptor must have "well read" the passions of the ruler, implying that the artist understood the ruler's complex nature. The fact that these "passions" are still evident in the statue, even though the ruler is long gone, suggests that the sculptor’s work is more enduring than the ruler’s physical reign. This observation raises an interesting question: who is more powerful, the ruler or the artist? The artist’s creation outlasts the ruler, suggesting the eternal power of art over temporal power.
• Enduring Art: The traveler emphasizes that while the pharaoh is dead, his passions—captured in the sculpture—still survive. The sculptor immortalized the ruler’s character in stone, indicating that art can transcend time and death. This idea supports the notion that even though rulers and empires may crumble, art remains a lasting legacy.
• Dichotomy of Leadership: The traveler also offers an intriguing reflection on the nature of the ruler. The line “The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed” speaks to the contradictory nature of the pharaoh. His hand, symbolizing action and control, mocked the people, showing a cruel, oppressive side. However, his heart—symbolizing emotion and compassion—“fed” the people, indicating that he may have had moments of care or generosity. This duality portrays a ruler who, despite his harshness, may have been complex and multifaceted.
• Synecdoche: Shelley uses synecdoche here, where the “hand” and “heart” symbolize the entirety of the ruler, Ozymandias. These body parts represent his actions and emotions in their entirety, encapsulating his complex nature and leadership.

In these lines, Shelley presents a deeper exploration of Ozymandias's character through the traveler’s reflection on the sculptor’s portrayal. The artist's ability to immortalize the ruler’s contradictory nature in stone highlights the enduring power of art, while the ruler’s duality of compassion and cruelty emphasizes the complexity of leadership. This contrast between temporal power and artistic immortality forms a key theme in the poem.

Lines 9-14 Analysis

Lines nine through fourteen shift the focus to the inscription on the pedestal of the statue, and the contrast between the ruler’s boastful words and the desolate state of his empire:

And on the pedestal, these words appear:
My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;
Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”

These final lines introduce a dramatic shift from the image of the statue itself to the irony of Ozymandias's boast, which stands in stark contrast to the ruin surrounding it.

• Hubris and Arrogance: The inscription on the pedestal reveals Ozymandias's hubris. He commands, “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!” These words are an expression of his belief in the eternal power and greatness of his empire. He intended for all who saw it to be overwhelmed by his achievements and power. However, the ironic twist is that there is nothing left to look at—just a crumbling statue in a barren desert. This highlights the pharaoh's overconfidence and arrogance, as he believed his empire would last forever.
• Irony of Decline: The traveler’s description of the statue’s pedestal emphasizes the ironic downfall of Ozymandias. While he once boasted of his greatness, the reality is that his empire has disappeared, leaving only “decay” and “bare” sands. Shelley uses this irony to underscore the transience of power. The ruler's words and the decayed state of his empire serve as a powerful commentary on the impermanence of human accomplishments.
• Imagery of Ruin: Shelley’s choice of words, like “decay” and “bare,” intensifies the image of destruction. The once-grand statue is now a “colossal Wreck,” a symbol of the fallen empire. These words suggest that the civilization’s glory has completely faded, leaving only remnants of its former self. The barren, empty sands around the statue are a vivid visual representation of the ruler’s lost power.
• Theme of the Impermanence of Power: In these lines, Shelley solidifies the central theme of the poem: the inevitable fall of all great civilizations and rulers. The ruler’s boastful words—intended to convey eternal power—are ironically surrounded by the emptiness of the desert. This reinforces the idea that no matter how mighty one might seem in life, time will ultimately reduce all things to dust.

The final lines of the poem deliver a poignant message about the fleeting nature of power and human achievement. The stark contrast between Ozymandias’s boastful words and the empty, desolate landscape serves as a reminder that no empire, no matter how grand, can withstand the ravages of time. This theme of impermanence is what makes the poem a timeless meditation on human ambition and the inevitable decline of all things.

Themes in "Ozymandias"

In "Ozymandias," Shelley explores several powerful themes that contribute to the lasting impact of the poem. These themes reflect on the fragility of human achievement and the inevitable decline of all things. Here are the key themes:

• Impermanence of Power: The most prominent theme in the poem is the impermanence of a ruler’s glory and legacy. Despite Ozymandias’s boastful declaration, “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair,” his empire has crumbled, leaving only a ruined statue. This serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how mighty a ruler may be, time will erode their power and influence. The poem implicitly suggests the futility of attempting to secure eternal fame or power, as all rulers eventually fall.
• Futility of Ambition: The poem hints at the futility of human ambition. Ozymandias's desire to be remembered as “King of Kings” is ironic, as his empire is now lost to the sands of time. The theme of futility suggests that no matter how great a leader's accomplishments may seem, they will eventually fade away, and their name will be forgotten. This reflects a broader commentary on the transient nature of human endeavors.
• Vainglory and Hubris: Shelley critiques the vainglory of rulers like Ozymandias, who believe that their greatness will endure forever. The inscription on the pedestal, with its boastful tone, reveals Ozymandias’s arrogance and pride. He imagined himself to be all-powerful and eternal, but his empire is long gone, leaving only remnants of his once-great civilization. This theme reflects the dangers of excessive pride and the delusion that power can conquer time.
• The Power of Art: Another important theme is the power of art to transcend time. Although Ozymandias’s empire has crumbled, the sculpture remains as a testament to the ruler’s former glory. The artist who crafted the statue captured the ruler’s essence, and through the sculpture, Ozymandias lives on. This theme suggests that while human achievements may fade, art has the power to immortalize the past and preserve its memory.
• The Decline of Civilization: The poem also touches on the theme of the inevitable decline of civilizations. Ozymandias’s once-great empire has decayed, leaving only the shattered remnants of a statue. This reflects the cyclical nature of history, where empires rise and fall. Shelley uses this imagery to illustrate the transience of civilizations, emphasizing that no matter how grand or powerful a society may be, it will eventually be overtaken by time.

Overall, Shelley uses "Ozymandias" to explore themes of impermanence, hubris, and the lasting power of art. The poem serves as a timeless reminder that all human endeavors, no matter how grand, are ultimately subject to decay and oblivion. In contrast, the power of art endures, preserving the memory of what once was.

Tone in "Ozymandias"

The tone of Shelley’s "Ozymandias" shifts throughout the poem, adding depth and emotional complexity to the message conveyed. The overall tone is serious and awe-inspiring, inviting readers to reflect on the transient nature of power and glory. Below is an analysis of the evolving tone:

• Initial Tone: Awe and Fear – The opening lines create a sense of awe and fear. The description of “Two vast and trunkless legs of stone” immediately evokes a feeling of wonder at the statue’s size and grandeur. This imagery not only emphasizes the ruler’s power and greatness but also stirs a sense of fear as the reader imagines the lost empire that the statue once symbolized. The stark contrast between the vastness of the statue and its current state of ruin begins to evoke pity as well as awe.
• Shifting to Serious and Fearful – As the poem progresses, the tone becomes more serious and laden with fear. The traveler’s recounting of the statue’s shattered visage, the "sneer of cold command," and the inscription proclaiming the ruler’s eternal power deepen the somber mood. There is a sense of doom and tragedy as the traveler contemplates the fate of the once-mighty Ozymandias and his fallen empire. The seriousness of the ruler’s hubris and the consequences of his belief in immortality weigh heavily on the tone.
• Sympathetic and Reflective – Toward the end, the tone softens somewhat as the speaker expresses a sense of sympathy for the faded glory of Ozymandias. The final lines, describing the vast, empty desert with the remnants of the colossal statue, evoke a sense of melancholy for what once was. There is an emotional shift here, where the speaker begins to reflect on the inevitability of death, decay, and the passage of time. This adds a more contemplative and even sympathetic layer to the tone, as the poem suggests that even great rulers must face the end of their power.

In conclusion, Shelley’s manipulation of tone in "Ozymandias" effectively underscores the themes of impermanence and the folly of human ambition. The transition from awe to fear, followed by sympathy and reflection, guides readers through the emotional journey of recognizing the futility of seeking immortality through power.

Critical Analysis of 'Ozymandias'by Shelley

'Ozymandias' is a 14-line sonnet composed in 1817 by Percy Bysshe Shelley, a British Romantic poet known for his association with radical social and political change.

Shelley led a tumultuous, nomadic life, marked by his dedication to producing poetry and pamphlets. His marriage to Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, daughter of philosopher William Godwin, and his European escapades, including time with Lord Byron, are noteworthy episodes.

Tragically, Shelley's life was cut short at 29 when his boat sank in a storm in the Gulf of Spezia, Italy. Despite being mourned by close friends, his radical views left him unsupported in England, where he was perceived as an agitator due to his atheism, pacifism, and vegetarianism.

Shelley's diverse poetry, ranging from nature-focused pieces like 'To a Skylark' and 'The Flower That Smiles Today' to political works like 'England' (1819), continues to endure.

'Ozymandias' is inherently political, crafted during the decline of Napoleon's rule and the ascendancy of the British Empire. The poem metaphorically conveys the inevitable downfall of tyrannical power, emphasizing that no leader, be it king or despot, can withstand the relentless passage of time. The sonnet paints a vivid portrayal of an egotistical ruler who, despite considering himself unrivaled, was harsh and cruel to his subjects.

About Percy Bysshe Shelley

Percy Bysshe Shelley was one of the most influential poets of the Romantic era, but ironically, he did not gain widespread recognition during his lifetime. Despite this, he was part of an impressive literary circle, forming close friendships with other notable poets like George Gordon Lord Byron and John Keats. Shelley was also married to Mary Shelley, the author of the iconic novel Frankenstein. Some of his best-known poems include Ozymandias, To a Skylark, and Ode to the West Wind, with the latter being considered one of his most famous and praised works.

Early Life and Education

Born into an affluent family, Shelley was granted access to a privileged education. He attended Oxford University, where his literary career began to take shape. However, Shelley’s time at Oxford was short-lived, as he was expelled for refusing to confess that he was the author of an anonymous pamphlet titled The Necessity of Atheism. His refusal to back down on his beliefs marked the beginning of his tendency to challenge societal norms.

Personal Life

In addition to his academic defiance, Shelley’s personal life was equally unconventional. He met and fell in love with Mary Godwin, who would later become his wife. This was despite the fact that Shelley was already married to another woman. His decision to abandon his first wife to be with Mary was controversial, especially since it occurred after his first wife tragically committed suicide. Shelley and Mary later married, and she took on the surname Mary Shelley after their union.

Key Life Events

• Expulsion from Oxford: Shelley’s academic career was abruptly halted when he refused to acknowledge his authorship of the controversial pamphlet, The Necessity of Atheism.
• Love and Marriage: Shelley’s love affair with Mary Godwin led to their marriage, after his first wife’s untimely death.
• Tragic Death: Shelley’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 29 when he drowned during a sailing trip in a storm off the coast of Italy.

Legacy and Influence

Despite his early death, Shelley’s impact on literature endured. His works, such as Ozymandias, To a Skylark, and Ode to the West Wind, explore profound themes including the nature of power, the beauty of nature, and the fleeting nature of human life. His ability to express these ideas with lyrical grace has left a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.

Poetry Themes

Much of Shelley’s work is centered on the following themes:

• Nature and the Sublime: Shelley often wrote about the natural world, presenting it as both beautiful and awe-inspiring, as seen in poems like To a Skylark and Ode to the West Wind.
• Revolution and Social Change: Shelley was deeply concerned with political issues and often incorporated revolutionary themes in his poetry, reflecting his desire for social reform.
• Mortality and the Ephemeral Nature of Life: In poems like Ozymandias, Shelley explores the fleeting nature of human achievement and the inevitable passage of time.

Explore More of P.B. Shelley’s Poems

For those interested in learning more about Shelley’s work, here are some other notable poems worth exploring:

• To a Skylark: A lyrical exploration of freedom, beauty, and transcendence through the image of a skylark.
• Ode to the West Wind: One of Shelley’s most famous odes, it blends themes of nature, revolution, and personal renewal.
• The Cloud: This poem reflects Shelley’s deep fascination with the natural world, exploring the power and majesty of the cloud as both a physical and metaphorical entity.
• Prometheus Unbound: A dramatic poem that delves into themes of oppression, freedom, and the power of the human spirit.

Conclusion

Though Shelley died at a young age, his influence on literature continues to endure. His poems not only showcase his mastery of language but also his ability to tackle complex philosophical and political ideas. His legacy lives on in the works that continue to inspire and provoke thought, cementing his place as one of the greatest poets in English literary history.

Similar Poems

Readers who enjoyed Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley may find the following poems equally compelling, as they explore similar themes such as pride, the fleeting nature of life, and human vanity:

• Pride by Francis Duggan — This poem directly addresses the concept of human ego and the destructive nature of pride.
• Dust If You Must by Rose Milligan — A reflection on the futility of life and the impermanence of human achievements, echoing themes of mortality.
• To A Louse by Robert Burns — In this satirical poem, Burns offers a humorous yet insightful critique of human vanity and self-importance.

These poems, while diverse in their style and approach, share common threads with Shelley's Ozymandias, offering readers deeper reflections on the transient nature of human glory and the inevitable decline of all things.

FAQs on Ozymandias

Why was ‘Ozymandias’ written?

In 1817, the British Museum announced that they had acquired a statue of Ramesses II, an Ancient Egyptian ruler. Shelley was inspired by the fact and started writing this poem in the same year. In the Christmas of 1817, Horace Smith and Shelley chose a passage from the writing of the Greek historian Diodorus Siculus. The passage described a similar statue and quoted the inscription: “King of Kings Ozymandias am I.” Shelley wrote this poem inspired by this description of the statue of Ozymandias from Diodorus.

Who is Ozymandias?

Ramesses II or Ramesses the Great, is known as Ozymandias in Greek historical sources. He was the third pharaoh of the 19th Dynasty of Egypt and is often regarded as the mightiest, most celebrated, and greatest pharaoh of Ancient Egypt.

When was ‘Ozymandias’ published?

The English Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley wrote the sonnet, ‘Ozymandias’, with it being first published in The Examiner on 11 January 1818.

What does Ozymandias mean?

‘Ozymandias,’ the title of Shelley’s one of the best-known sonnets refers to the Ancient Egyptian pharaoh, Ramesses II. Through this poem, Shelley throws light on the nature of power and impermanence of regnal glory, by referring to a fragment of a statue of Ramesses II or Ozymandias.

What is the theme of ‘Ozymandias’?

The central theme of the poem is the transience of glory, as well as power. It also taps on the themes of the futility of life, the fate of history, ravages of time, antiquity, and impermanence. The main theme is introduced in the very beginning where Shelley’s speaker describes the “colossal Wreck” of Ozymandias half sunk in the lone desert.

What is Ozymandias?

Ozymandias is the Greek name of a pharaoh from Ancient Egypt. He is Ramesses II or Ramesses the Great. The name Ozymandias comes from the first part of the regnal name of Ramesses, “Usermaatre Setepenre”. Shelley’s sonnet refers to a half-destroyed statue of this pharaoh.

What is the poem about?

‘Ozymandias’ is about the nature of power. Shelley describes how powerful men and their legacies are destined to fade into oblivion. It is an important piece that features how a great ruler like Ozymandias and his legacy was buried in the pages of history.

What is the message of the poem?

Through ‘Ozymandias,’ Shelley tries to give an important message. He wants to say no matter how much rulers try, their deeds are going to be forgotten after death. In this way, the poet warns readers not to be infatuated with power. Power does not guarantee eternal glory, only meekness does.

What is the irony in ‘Ozymandias’?

The irony of this sonnet lies in the last few lines. After reading the lines, “My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;/ Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!” readers can understand the nature of the speaker. He is a haughty ruler who, under the impression of being the most powerful, dares to challenge the Almighty. What has happened to him? The next lines ironically express it better. According to Shelley’s speaker, “Nothing beside remains.” With just three ironic words, Shelley destroys his self-conceit.

What is the metaphor in ‘Ozymandias’?

The poem begins with a metaphor. Shelley uses the metaphor of a “traveller” for pointing at the Greek historian Diodorus. Besides, the title is a metaphor. It refers to a fragment of Ozymandias’s statue. Furthermore, a metaphor, “colossal Wreck” is used as a reference to Ozymandias.