- (a) Idylls of the King
- (b) In Memoriam A.H.H.
- (c) The Lady of Shalott
- (d) Ulysses
In Tennyson’s dramatic monologue, “Ulysses,” the speaker, Ulysses (or Odysseus), reflects on his life and experiences after returning home from his long and arduous journeys. Despite being back in Ithaca, he feels restless and discontented with the mundane life of a king. Ulysses contemplates the idea of embarking on another voyage, seeking purpose and fulfillment beyond his current existence. The theme of contemplating suicide is subtly woven into the narrative as Ulysses grapples with his sense of identity and the desire for a more meaningful life.
Conclusion
Tennyson’s “Ulysses” is a powerful exploration of a hero’s internal struggle and quest for purpose. Through this monologue, Tennyson captures the universal human experience of seeking meaning and the relentless pursuit of one’s true calling, even in the face of despair.