Thyrsis : Themes
Thyrsis is a notable literary work by Alfred Lord Tennyson. 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, and various study materials of Thyrsis.
Themes
Friendship and Loss: The poem is about the poet’s deep love for his friend, Arthur Hugh Clough, who has died. Arnold misses him very much and feels sad and lonely without him. He walks through the Oxford countryside, remembering their times together. The poem shows how losing a close friend can hurt for a long time.
Change and Memory: The poet sees that the countryside has changed. The places they once knew are no longer the same. This makes him feel more alone. The poem shows that time changes everything, but our memories still live in our hearts.
Search for Truth: Arnold speaks about “The Scholar Gipsy,” a symbol of someone who searches for truth. He believes that his friend also wanted to find truth and meaning in life. Even though Clough is gone, Arnold wants to continue that search. The poem says that truth and hope never die.