William Blake's Critique of the Industrial Revolution

Introduction

The poetry of William Blake is renowned for its metaphysical language and profound symbolism. In his notable works, "London" and "Jerusalem," Blake's adept use of these techniques becomes crucial in portraying the corruptive tendencies of man and expressing his perspective on religion and England during the Industrial Revolution. This essay delves into the analysis of two pivotal poems by William Blake, examining how he employs metaphysical language and symbolism to convey his strong critique of the Industrial Revolution, with a specific focus on London.

"London" Analysis

Blake's poem "London" opens with a cynical portrayal of authority figures during the Romantic era, primarily the church and the king. The word "chart'd" implies ownership of the "streets" and "Thames" by the state, revealing the oppressive nature of capitalism and suggesting the control of nature by the wealthy. A Marxist reading unveils the power dynamics between the church or king and the land they rule, akin to the bourgeoisie and proletariat relationship.

Blake vividly communicates the impact of this oppression through the line, "Marks of weakness, marks of woe," depicting the sadness and helplessness of the people of London.

Get quality help now

writer-Charlotte

Verified writer

Proficient in: London

4.7 (348)

“ Amazing as always, gave her a week to finish a big assignment and came through way ahead of time. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

The poem's dark and gothic tone is reinforced by words like "manacles," "blights," and "plagues," contributing to a portrayal of a corrupt society. The repetitive beat underscores the constant pressures faced by society.

The subsequent stanzas evoke a strong sense of discontent and subjugation, emphasizing "The mind-forg'd manacles I hear." This accentuates the churches or the king's control over the minds of individuals, exposing the corruptive nature of authority and power.

The Christian church's values are challenged, portraying it as corrupt and oppressive. Even for contemporary readers, the poem challenges the values associated with the church, portraying it as gradually corrupting in the line, "Every black’ning Church appalls."

Blake exposes the oppressive nature of capitalism in England during this era, proposing that nature is controlled by the wealthy. A Marxist reading of this shows the relationship between the Church or King and the land over which they rule, portraying the capital power as the bourgeoisie and their land and people on it as the proletariat.

The poem also challenges the values of the Christian church, which is traditionally seen as a symbol of salvation, hope, and refuge. Blake presents the church as corrupt, oppressive, and controlling, prompting readers to question their beliefs and the prevailing societal values. This portrayal is encapsulated in the line, "Every black’ning Church appalls," suggesting a gradual corruption of the institution.

In the last stanza, Blake proposes that marriage is an end to freedom, symbolized in "And the blights with plagues the Marriage hearse." Marriage, often taking place in a church, is associated with the controlling and oppressive nature of the church during the Romantic period. The archaic language adds to the poem's gothic nature, creating a short and sharp beat through the simplistic and repetitive "ABCB" rhyming pattern.

"Jerusalem" Analysis

In "Jerusalem," Blake shifts focus to the natural beauty of England and its religious themes. The poem opens with a somber tone, questioning the theory of Jesus being in England during his childhood. Blake's seemingly patriotic discussion of his own country is laden with metaphor, emphasizing the ever-changing authority of the church.

The metaphorical expression "Among these dark satanic mills" could refer to the Industrial Revolution or oppressive institutions like universities and churches during the Romantic period. Blake consistently references England's beauty, contrasting it with manmade creations like the "dark satanic mills," the "bow of burning gold," and the "chariot of fire."

Throughout the poem, Blake uses numerous metaphors to emphasize his fight against the clergy. Lines like "Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold!" and "I shall not cease in mental fight, Till we have built Jerusalem In England’s green and pleasant land" depict the persona's struggle to fight against conformity and oppression in the name of God. The use of metaphorical language enhances the emotional resonance of the poem, conveying the persona's passionate resistance against corrupt authority.

Comparatively, "London" and "Jerusalem" both describe Blake's homeland, England. "London" paints a picture of corruption and depression, while "Jerusalem" celebrates the natural beauty of the country. The connection between the poems and Blake's strong dislike of the Industrial Revolution is evident. The analysis reflects Blake's portrayal of change in his life and its impact on the world and its inhabitants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the analysis explores William Blake's powerful critique of the Industrial Revolution through the poems "London" and "Jerusalem." His adept use of metaphors, symbolism, and emotional resonance conveys a poignant message about the corruptive tendencies of authority and the contrasting perspectives on England's beauty. Blake's exploration of change and its societal impact remains relevant, inviting readers to reflect on the evolving nature of the world and its inhabitants.