What picture of a futuristic world does Tennyson depict in his poem “Locksley Hall”? 

Answer

What picture of a futuristic world does Tennyson depict in his poem “Locksley Hall”? 

In “Locksley Hall” (1842), Tennyson (1809-1892) depicts a futuristic world full of scientific progress and peace, all in the speaker’s optimistic imagination. Even though the speaker of this poem is sad about his lost love, Amy, he still dreams of a better world in the future. He looks forward to a time when humanity will grow wiser and kinder.

Progress in Science and Travel: The speaker imagines a world where science will help people build new technologies, like flying machines or “magic sails.” He says:

“…The heavens fill with commerce, argosies of magic sails.”

This means that in the future, there will be magical ships flying in the sky. Trade will take place all over the world. People will travel easily across great distances.

A Peaceful and United World: The speaker also dreams of peace between nations. He hopes for a global government where people will live under one law. To depict this futuristic world, Tennyson uses phrases like “Parliament of man” and “Federation of the world.” By “Federation of the world”, Tennyson imagines a world where all countries will unite to form a joint global government or organization. In this system, peace, unity, and progress will be established throughout the world. 

The speaker imagines an end to war. Instead of fighting, countries will come together in peace and cooperation. The poem ends with the speaker’s decision to live with hope and look forward to a better future. As he says:

“Forward, forward let us range”

So, the picture of the future in “Locksley Hall” is very hopeful. Tennyson sees a time when science, travel, and peace will make life better.