Nose versus Eyes
Introduction
- The poem “Nose versus Eyes” is written by William Cowper, a famous 18th-century English poet.
- Cowper’s poems often talk about nature and daily life.
- The poem is a satire, which means it uses humor to criticize something – in this case, the legal system.
- It humorously points out the lack of empathy and common sense in some legal decisions.
1. About the Poet
Poet’s Name: William Cowper
The text mentions that Samuel T. Coleridge described him as the ‘Best Modern Poet’ of his times.
Awards/Recognition: While the text highlights Coleridge’s praise, it doesn’t list any formal awards given to Cowper.
2. Key Elements and Literary Devices
- Satire: The poem uses humor to criticize the legal system and its sometimes illogical judgments.
- Personification: The Nose, Eyes, and Tongue are given human qualities, like arguing and making speeches.
- Humor: The entire poem is funny, especially the final judgment.
- Inversion: The poem uses inverted sentences for poetic effect (e.g., “Between Nose and Eyes a strange contest arose”).
3. Analysis of Characters
- Nose: Presented as claiming ownership of the spectacles.
- Eyes: Shown as being deprived of using the spectacles.
- Tongue: Acts as a clever lawyer, using persuasive arguments.
- Ear: Represents the judge, who gives a peculiar and somewhat unfair verdict.
4. Central Idea
- The poem’s main idea is to criticize the legal system for being illogical and lacking common sense.
- It also comments on how legal proceedings can sometimes be ridiculous.
5. Important Terms
- Dispute: A disagreement or argument.
- Spectacles: Glasses.
- Wig: A head covering made of artificial hair, worn by judges in some courts.
- Baron: A powerful person or judge.
- Decreed: Officially decided or ordered.
- Solemn: Serious and formal.
- Condemn: To express strong disapproval.
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