Theory question 111
Non-African PoetryLiterature 2, Section D: Non-African Poetry
Discuss the character of Ulysses in the poem.
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Model answer
Tennyson's Ulysses is an aged king back in Ithaca, bored with ruling 'a savage race' beside 'an aged wife'.
Restless and adventurous: 'I cannot rest from travel'; he wants to 'drink life to the lees'.
Thirsty for knowledge and experience: to 'follow knowledge like a sinking star'.
Proud of his past achievements and fame.
Realistic about old age and death but determined: 'to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield'.
Leaves his kingdom to his son Telemachus, whom he trusts but sees as suited to quieter duties.
A natural leader who inspires his mariners.
Explanation
Quote lines as evidence.