Structure: Meter

The Charge of the Light Brigade by Alfred, Lord Tennyson

The Destruction of Sennacherib by George Gordon, Lord Byron

About the Poems

1. Although both Tennyson's and Byron's poems are serious narratives about specific historical events, which one would you say builds up greater tension? Which one represents a mood of grandeur or awe?
• Byron's poem
2. What type of meter is used in "The Charge of the Light Brigade"?
• dactylic foot,the feeling of speed and urgency
3. What is the meter of "The Destruction of Sennacherib"? How does the effect of this meter differ from that of Tennyson's poem?
• anapestic foot,to prepare you for something big.
4. After Byron describes the stunning devastation of Sennacherib's forces for three stanzas, he concludes by mentioning God in the final line. What does this final line suggest about God?
• God is so powerful he can take down a whole army just by glancing at them.