Theory question 112
Non-African PoetryLiterature 2, Section D
How is atmosphere conveyed in Elegy written in a country churchyard?
Show the model answer
Model answer
Thomas Gray: evening scene in a churchyard.
Images of fading day: curfew, lowing herd, ploughman going home.
Stillness and darkness; owl's complaint; graves.
Diction and slow rhythm create solemn, melancholy mood.
Reflection on death of the poor ('paths of glory lead but to the grave').
Explanation
Show how imagery, sound and diction build the atmosphere.