I need help understanding the poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" so I can answer some questions on it.
I know it is about death..
but I get confused by the old language.
I've googled, but haven't found any good sites.
Any help locating any would be great!
This site has the poem written in clearer English and an analysis of the poem.
http://www.cummingsstudyguides.net/ThoGray.html
This is a study guide.
http://www.bookrags.com/studyguide-elegychurchyard/
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To understand the poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" by Thomas Gray, it's essential to navigate the complexity of the language and the deeper meaning behind the poem. Don't worry; I can help you with that!
Firstly, it's important to note that the poem was written in the 18th century, which means it uses older language and literary conventions that might be unfamiliar to us today. However, with a bit of guidance, it can become easier to interpret.
To find reliable explanations and analysis of the poem, it's often best to look for scholarly sources or websites dedicated to literature. While general search engines may provide summaries, they might not go into as much depth as you need. Consider some of the following resources:
1. JSTOR: JSTOR is an online library that contains numerous scholarly articles. It can be accessed through institutions like universities or libraries that subscribe to the database. It is a great source for academic analyses of literary works.
2. Project MUSE: Similar to JSTOR, Project MUSE offers a wide range of academic articles and book chapters. Again, it may require an institutional subscription, but some articles may be available for free.
3. SparkNotes or CliffsNotes: These websites provide study guides and summaries for many literary works. While they may not be considered as academically rigorous as the previous sources mentioned, they can still offer explanations on themes, language, and context.
4. Poetry Foundation: The Poetry Foundation website offers a collection of poems, including "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard." They often provide contextual information, interpretations, and even audio recordings to enhance understanding.
When reading the poem itself, take it slowly and carefully. Pay attention to the imagery, metaphors, and overall structure. Also, consider the historical context of the poem: the time in which it was written, the social and cultural influences of that era, and any relevant biographical information about the poet, Thomas Gray.
By consulting reliable sources and taking your time to analyze the poem, you'll gain a deeper understanding of "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" and be better equipped to answer questions about it.