The Charge of the Light Brigade (AQA GCSE English Literature): Revision Notes

The Charge of the Light Brigade

"The Charge of the Light Brigade" by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Context

Alfred Lord Tennyson was a Victorian poet laureate known for his expressive and rhythmic poetry. "The Charge of the Light Brigade" commemorates the valiant but doomed charge of British cavalry during the Battle of Balaclava in the Crimean War. The poem celebrates the bravery and heroism of the soldiers while also highlighting the tragic futility of their mission.

The Poem

Half a league, half a league,

← Repetition

Half a league onward,

All in the valley of Death

Rode the six hundred.

"Forwards, the Light Brigade!

Charge for the guns!" he said.

Into the valley of Death

← Imagery

Rode the six hundred.

"Forwards, the Light Brigade!"

Was there a man dismayed?

Not though the soldier knew

Someone had blundered.

Theirs not to make reply,

Theirs not to reason why,

← Metaphor

Theirs but to do and die.

Into the valley of Death

Rode the six hundred.

Cannon to right of them,

Cannon to left of them,

Cannon in front of them

Volleyed and thundered;

Stormed at with shot and shell,

← Alliteration

Boldly they rode and well,

Into the jaws of Death,

← Personification

Into the mouth of hell

Rode the six hundred.

5 quotes + analysis to achieve a grade 9

1. Repetition: "Half a league, half a league, / Half a league onward"

• Analysis: The repetition of "half a league" creates a rhythmic, driving pace that mimics the relentless advance of the cavalry. It emphasises the determination and unwavering commitment of the soldiers despite the imminent danger.

2. Imagery: "Into the valley of Death"

• Analysis: The imagery of "the valley of Death" evokes a powerful and ominous picture of the soldiers charging into certain danger. It symbolises the fatal nature of their mission, highlighting the bravery required to face such overwhelming odds.

3. Metaphor: "Theirs not to reason why, / Theirs but to do and die"

• Analysis: This metaphor encapsulates the soldiers' unquestioning obedience and duty. It underscores the theme of honour and sacrifice, suggesting that their role is to follow orders without hesitation, even if it leads to death.

4. Alliteration: "Stormed at with shot and shell"

• Analysis: The alliteration of 's' sounds in "stormed," "shot," and "shell" emphasises the intensity and chaos of the battle. It enhances the auditory imagery, making the scene more vivid and dramatic.

5. Personification: "Into the jaws of Death, / Into the mouth of hell"

• Analysis: The personification of Death and hell as having "jaws" and a "mouth" conveys the deadly nature of the mission. It creates a vivid and terrifying image of the soldiers being swallowed by the horrors of war.

Form & Structure Points

• Dactylic Diameter: The poem's metre mirrors the galloping rhythm of the cavalry, creating a sense of urgency and movement.
• Repetition: Used to emphasise key themes and create a rhythmic, driving pace that reflects the relentless advance of the brigade.
• Personification: Adds to the poem's dramatic and terrifying imagery, highlighting the deadly nature of the mission.

Example Paragraph for a Grade 9 Answer:

In "The Charge of the Light Brigade," Tennyson explores heroism and sacrifice through repetition and vivid imagery. The repetition of "Half a league" creates a rhythmic pace that mimics the cavalry's advance, emphasising their commitment. Imagery in "Into the valley of Death" evokes a powerful picture of danger, highlighting their bravery. The metaphor "Theirs not to reason why, / Theirs but to do and die" underscores the soldiers' duty and sacrifice. Alliteration in "Stormed at with shot and shell" emphasises the chaos of battle, while personification in "Into the jaws of Death, / Into the mouth of hell" conveys the deadly nature of their mission. Through these devices, Tennyson conveys the themes of heroism and sacrifice...