Ask a New Question
Menu

Use the painting and poem to answer the question.

The Lady of Shalott
by Alfred Lord Tennyson
A painting of The Lady of Shalott by John William Waterhouse. She is sailing alone in a small boat on the river.
Source: IanDagnall Computing. Alamy Stock Photo

In 3–5 sentences, analyze how the poem and the painting each contribute to your understanding of the story. Explain at least one detail the poem contains that the painting does not and tell how it contributes to your understanding. Then, explain at least one detail the painting contains that the poem does not and tell how it contributes to your understanding.

(4 points)

Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

3
The answer is mostly clear.

The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.

There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

2
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is not clear.

There are few or no supporting details.

There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0 The question is not answered.
Skip to navigation

1 answer

The poem "The Lady of Shalott" provides a deep emotional context, particularly highlighting the Lady's isolation and longing for the outside world through her fateful curse. One detail from the poem that is absent from the painting is the Lady’s enchantment and her tether to her loom, which emphasizes her imprisonment by fate and societal constraints. This contributes to my understanding by underscoring her tragic predicament and the sacrifice of her dreams for safety.

Conversely, the painting by Waterhouse captures the moment of the Lady at sea, depicting her serene yet evocative expression and the serene beauty of her surroundings. This detail emphasizes the contrast between her inner turmoil and the peaceful external world, enhancing the sense of foreboding that accompanies her choice to leave her sheltered life. Together, the poem and painting enrich my understanding of the Lady's tragic story — an artistically nuanced combination of longing, isolation, and the desire for freedom.