Divergent Mythic Visions: Helen's Essence Through Doolittle and Poe

In the realm of poetic interpretations, the stark contrast between Hilda Doolittle's "Helen" and Edgar Allan Poe's "Helen" is immediately apparent. While both poets delve into the description of the mythical figure, Helen of Troy, their divergent perspectives give rise to distinctive emotional landscapes within their respective works.

Doolittle's Profound Disdain for Helen

Hilda Doolittle's "Helen" unfolds as a poignant exploration of the speaker's growing aversion to Helen. Notably, Doolittle makes a deliberate choice in using the term "all Greece" instead of "all Greeks," suggesting a broader indictment that encompasses not only the individuals but the entire cultural milieu of Greece.

The poet employs vivid and dark imagery, employing words such as "hate" and "revile" to intensify the speaker's contempt for Helen.

The strategic repetition of the phrase "all Greece" in the initial stanzas underscores the pervasive nature of the disdain, creating a thematic continuity throughout the poem. Doolittle masterfully weaves a narrative that remains consistently vivid and descriptive, revealing the depth of the speaker's animosity towards Helen.

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The Transformation of Beauty in Doolittle's "Helen"

In the opening stanza, Doolittle portrays Helen with words like "olive" and "white," traditionally associated with beauty. However, the mention of "still eyes" introduces an intriguing element, conjuring the image of a statue-like persona. The second stanza delves into Greece's growing repulsion towards Helen, describing her as "wan" and progressively paler, marking the erosion of her once enchanting appearance.

Helen's introspection into her past transgressions serves as a catalyst for her transformation, leading her towards a state reminiscent of a statue or even death.

The concluding lines depict her with "cool feet," a pallid complexion, and surrounded by "funereal cypresses," evoking strong associations with death. Greece's relentless condemnation of Helen, even in the face of her smile, suggests a profound lack of mercy. The poem posits that the only redemption for Helen lies in her demise, as it becomes the sole avenue through which she may attain compassion, love, and mercy.

Poe's Reverence for the Beauty of Helen

Contrary to Doolittle's portrayal, Edgar Allan Poe's "Helen" is a paean of admiration for the titular character. Poe's verses exude an intense affection for Helen, celebrating her beauty with profound reverence. The poet employs imagery that elevates Helen to an almost divine status, expressing a deep admiration that stands in stark contrast to Doolittle's narrative.

In Poe's rendition, Helen is a source of inspiration and splendor, with the poet dwelling on her enchanting eyes and radiant countenance. The poem becomes a lyrical ode to Helen's beauty, exploring the captivating allure that transcends mortal limitations. Unlike Doolittle's portrayal, Poe's Helen is not burdened by the weight of condemnation but is instead exalted as a symbol of timeless beauty and grace.

Conclusion: Divergent Perspectives on Helen's Mythical Aura

In conclusion, the exploration of Hilda Doolittle's "Helen" and Edgar Allan Poe's "Helen" unveils a fascinating interplay of contrasting perspectives. Doolittle's narrative paints a vivid picture of disdain and resentment towards Helen, culminating in a symbolic transformation towards a death-like state. In contrast, Poe's verses offer a lyrical celebration of Helen's beauty, elevating her to an ethereal plane. These distinct portrayals showcase the diverse ways in which poets can interpret and reimagine timeless mythological figures, adding layers of complexity and nuance to their poetic creations.