What is irony in the poem Ozymandias?

Question

Answer

From this poem narattor wants to convey only one message thant everything ends with time.

Answer

The central irony in this poem is that Ozymandias's statue was intended to project his greatness. But when the onlooker sees it, it is not only shattered, but it lies in the midst of a wasteland.

Answer

Ozymandias, the great king of Egypt gets his statue made in order to immortalize himself he accepts that his name will leave till posterity but time plays Havoc with his statue, the statue lie broken and this figured and is surrounded by a barren deserts. His exceptions in belied and thus the whole situation is ironical.

Hope it will help you

Answer

Irony in the poem 'Ozymandias'

The poem 'Ozymandias' by Percy Bysshe Shelley is rich in irony, which is used to convey a powerful message about the nature of power, time, and the impermanence of human achievements. The irony in the poem can be observed through various elements and aspects:

1. The Title: 'Ozymandias'

The very title of the poem sets up an ironic tone. 'Ozymandias' refers to the Greek name for Ramses II, a powerful pharaoh who believed that his legacy would stand the test of time. However, the ironic twist lies in the fact that the statue of Ozymandias, which was meant to immortalize his greatness, is now in ruins.

2. The Description of the Statue

The poem describes the statue of Ozymandias as a 'vast and trunkless legs of stone,' highlighting the fragmented and decayed state of the monument. The irony lies in the stark contrast between the grandiose claims made by Ozymandias about his power and the current state of his statue, which is now a mere relic of the past.

3. The Inscription on the Pedestal

The inscription on the pedestal of the statue further emphasizes the irony in the poem. It reads, 'My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings; Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!' This inscription implies that Ozymandias believed his power and accomplishments were so great that they would inspire awe and fear in others. However, the irony lies in the fact that there is nothing left to admire or fear, except for the barren and desolate surroundings.

4. The Contrast Between the Past and the Present

Another layer of irony is evident in the stark contrast between the past and the present depicted in the poem. The poem describes the 'lone and level sands' that stretch far away, indicating the vastness and emptiness of the desert. This contrast highlights the fleeting nature of power and the inevitable decline of empires over time.

5. The Speaker's Perspective

The speaker in the poem, who encounters the ruined statue, adds another layer of irony. The speaker is not directly connected to the power of Ozymandias and observes the ruins with a detached and almost mocking tone. This ironic detachment serves to underscore the insignificance of human achievements in the face of time.

Overall, the irony in 'Ozymandias' serves to convey the message that even the most powerful and seemingly eternal empires will eventually crumble and fade away. It reminds us of the transience of human existence and the impermanence of power and glory.

Answer

The irony in the poem lies in the fact that

the mighty ruler had

the following words engraved on his statue 'My name is Ozymandias, king of kings; Look upon my works ye Mighty and despair!' These words conveyed he was so powerful that no other king could surpass him.

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