why the poem ozymandias illustrate the vanity of human greatness
The poem ozymandias illustrate the vanity of human greatness. It is known to everyone that everything has an end. All these pride, arrogance, anger and cruelty are of no use. As we saw that the statue of king ozymandias was in ruins with the passage of time. So it is clear that time is all powerful.
why the poem ozymandias illustrate the vanity of human greatness
Introduction:
The poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley illustrates the vanity of human greatness by depicting the ruins of a once-great civilization and the fading memory of its leader.
The Statue of Ozymandias:
The poem describes a traveler who comes across the ruins of a statue depicting the Egyptian pharaoh, Ozymandias, who is also known as Ramses II. The statue, now broken and lying in the desert, serves as a reminder of the transience of human power and the inevitability of its decline.
The Inscription:
The inscription on the statue reads, "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!" The arrogance and vanity of the pharaoh are evident in these words, as he boasts of his power and greatness. However, the irony lies in the fact that the only thing left of his once-great empire is a broken statue in the middle of the desert.
The Lesson:
The poem teaches us that human greatness is fleeting and that all empires and leaders will eventually fall. It is a warning against the dangers of arrogance and vanity, and a reminder that even the most powerful rulers are subject to the forces of time and nature.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Ozymandias" is a powerful commentary on the nature of human greatness and its ultimate futility. Through the ruins of a once-great statue and the fading memory of a long-dead ruler, Shelley reminds us of the importance of humility and the impermanence of all things.
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