Metaphysical poetry merges the intellectual with the emotional. It explores abstract topics with witty language and inventive metaphors. Metaphysical poetry, a genre...Continue
Discuss the theme of divine justice in the final stanza of “The Patriot.”
Discuss the theme of divine justice in the final stanza of “The Patriot.”
In the final stanza of Robert Browning’s (1812-89) “The Patriot” (1855), the speaker reflects on his fate with a calm and hopeful tone. Even though the world has turned against him, he believes in God’s ultimate justice. This idea is an important theme in the poem. This shows that divine judgment is more important than human opinions.
Worldly Judgment vs. God’s Judgment: The speaker understands that human praise and blame are temporary. A year ago, the people celebrated him, but now they condemn him. He says,
“Paid by the World, what dost thou owe
Me?”
This suggests that human rewards mean nothing in the face of God’s justice. He believes God will repay him for his good deeds. It shows his faith in divine fairness.
Hope in Divine Reward: Despite his suffering, the speaker feels safe because he trusts God. The line,
“Tis God shall repay! I am safer so,”
It shows his belief that God will give him true justice. This faith gives him peace even as he faces death. The speaker’s hope contrasts with the cruelty of the crowd. It emphasizes that God’s justice is eternal and kind.
In this way, the final stanza highlights the speaker’s hope and belief in divine justice.