describe the historical events and the climate of alienation and uncertainty that caused Arnold to write "Dover Beach." Give 2 paragraphs!
In the mid-19th century, Great Britain was going through a period of significant political, social, and economic upheaval. The industrial revolution had brought about rapid urbanization and an influx of people into the cities, leading to overcrowding, pollution, and social inequalities. Additionally, the spread of Darwin's theory of evolution challenged traditional religious beliefs and caused a sense of uncertainty about the nature of existence. The Crimean War and the Franco-Prussian War further fueled feelings of disillusionment and insecurity among the population. In this climate of alienation and uncertainty, Matthew Arnold was inspired to write "Dover Beach" as a reflection of the changing times and the erosion of traditional values.
The poem "Dover Beach" captures the sense of loss and disillusionment experienced by Arnold and his contemporaries. The shifting landscapes of politics, religion, and society left many feeling adrift and disconnected from the world around them. The metaphor of the ebbing tide in the poem serves as a powerful symbol of the loss of faith and stability in a rapidly changing world. Arnold's use of imagery and language conveys a sense of sadness and despair, as he laments the fading of the "Sea of Faith" and the encroaching darkness of doubt and skepticism. Overall, "Dover Beach" reflects the historical events and the prevailing climate of alienation and uncertainty that influenced Arnold's writing during this tumultuous period in British history.