Comparison and Contrast between the Poems "Ozymandias" and "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments"

Introduction:
Both "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley and "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments" by William Shakespeare's sonnet 55 are poems that explore the theme of immortality and the power of art. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in their approach and message.

Comparison:
1. Theme of Time:
- Both poems address the notion of time and its effect on human achievements and legacies.
- "Ozymandias" depicts the ruins of a once-mighty statue, emphasizing the transience of human power and the inevitable decay of all things.
- In "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments," Shakespeare's sonnet asserts that even the most durable materials cannot withstand the passage of time and preserve the memory of individuals.

2. Use of Imagery:
- Both poets employ vivid imagery to convey their messages.
- In "Ozymandias," Shelley describes the shattered statue in the desert, emphasizing the contrast between the grandeur of the past and the desolation of the present.
- Shakespeare's sonnet uses imagery of marble and gilded monuments to symbolize human achievements, suggesting that even these magnificent structures will eventually crumble and fade away.

Contrast:
1. Tone:
- The tone of "Ozymandias" is more somber and reflective, evoking a sense of melancholy and insignificance in the face of time's passage.
- In contrast, "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments" has a more celebratory tone, emphasizing the power of poetry and art to defy time and preserve the memory of the beloved.

2. Focus:
- "Ozymandias" primarily focuses on the downfall of a once-great ruler and the fleeting nature of power and fame.
- "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments," on the other hand, emphasizes the timeless nature of poetry and the ability of art to transcend the limitations of mortality.

3. Structure:
- "Ozymandias" is written in a sonnet form, comprising fourteen lines with a structured rhyme scheme (ABABACDCEDEFEF).
- In contrast, "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments" is also a sonnet but follows a different rhyme scheme (ABABCDCDEFEFGG).

Conclusion:
In conclusion, both "Ozymandias" and "Not Marble nor the Gilded Monuments" share the theme of the passage of time and the ephemeral nature of human achievements. However, they differ in their tone, focus, and structure, with Shelley's poem presenting a more melancholic reflection on power and fame, while Shakespeare's sonnet celebrates the enduring power of poetry and art.