What Picture of Village Life do You Find in the Poem Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard?
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard is a notable literary work by Thomas Gray. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard.
Answer
What picture of village life do you find in the poem?
Thomas Gray’s (1716-71) “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard” (1751) is a famous poem about life, death, and the beauty of simple living. It paints a quiet and peaceful picture of village life. The poet describes the calm countryside and the hardworking lives of villagers. Here are the main points about village life from the poem:
- Hardworking People: The villagers are shown as farmers and plowmen. They work hard in the fields during the day. At sunset, they go home feeling tired but content.
- Natural Beauty: The countryside is peaceful and full of natural beauty. There are trees, fields, and animals like herds of cattle. The air is still and calm, creating a sense of quietness.
- Close to Nature: The villagers live close to nature. They hear the sounds of birds, insects, and animals. This shows their deep connection with the natural world.
- Simple and Humble Lives: The villagers lead simple lives, free from luxury. They do not seek fame or riches. Their lives are marked by honesty and hard work.
- Respect for the Dead: The poem describes the graves of the villagers. These graves show their peaceful rest after a life of labor. It highlights the dignity in their humble lives.
In conclusion, the poem shows village life as peaceful, natural, and simple. It teaches us to respect the hardworking lives of common people.