Use the chart below to compare the poem “Pied Beauty” by Gerard Manley Hopkins to “Sonnet 43” by Elizabeth Barrett Browning as a prewriting activity in order to answer the following essay question.
Essay question: In what ways do the poems "Pied Beauty" by Gerard Manley Hopkins and "Sonnet 43" by Elizabeth Barrett Browning explore the theme of beauty and nature?
Comparison chart:
| Aspect | "Pied Beauty" by Gerard Manley Hopkins | "Sonnet 43" by Elizabeth Barrett Browning |
|--------------------------|-----------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Form & Structure | Short poem with uneven stanza lengths, | Sonnet with structured 14-line format |
| | including a sestet and octave | with a rhyming ABBA ABBA CDCDCD rhyme |
| | Rhythmic use of alliteration and | scheme |
| | internal rhyme | |
| Theme | Celebrates the diversity and beauty | Expresses deep love and admiration for |
| | of nature, praising God as the creator | a beloved, describing their love as |
| | of all things | endless and unconditional |
| Imagery & Language | Uses vivid imagery of various natural | Utilizes metaphorical language to |
| | objects and phenomena such as skies, | portray love as a powerful force that |
| | mountains, and animals | transcends time and space |
| Tone & Mood | Reverent and joyful, giving thanks for | Romantic and passionate, conveying |
| | the beauty of the world and nature | deep emotional connection |
| Key literary devices | Alliteration, internal rhyme, | Metaphor, simile, personification, |
| | parallelism, rhythm | imagery, enjambment |
By comparing and contrasting the themes, imagery, language, and tone of "Pied Beauty" and "Sonnet 43", it becomes clear that both poems explore the theme of beauty and nature in different ways. While Hopkins reflects on the diversity and wonder of the natural world, expressing gratitude and admiration for its creator, Browning delves into the profound depths of love and its enduring nature. Through their respective use of imagery, language, and tone, both poets convey a deep appreciation for the beauty and significance of the world around them.