Question

Activity

Read this excerpt from the poem "Prospect of the Future Glory of America" by John Trumbull and answer the questions that follow in one or two sentences.

To views far distant and to scenes more bright,
Along the vale of Time extend thy sight,
Where hours and days and years from yon dim pole,
Wave following wave in long succession roll,
There see, in pomp for ages without end,
The glories of the Western World ascend.
See, this blest land in orient morn appears,
Waked from the slumber of six thousand years,
While clouds of darkness veil'd each cheering ray;
To savage beasts and savage men, a prey.
Fair Freedom now her ensigns bright displays,
And peace and plenty bless the golden days.
In radiant state th' imperial realm shall rise,
Her splendor circling to the boundless skies;
Of every Fair she boasts the assembled charms,
The Queen of empires and the nurse of arms.

Part A
What is the meter of this poem?

Part B
What contrasting imagery does Trumbull use to describe his vision for the future of the nation?

Part C
Where does Trumbull use personification? For what purpose does he use this technique?

Part D
What characterizes this poem as a work from the age of reason?

Part E
What does the phrase "Queen of empires and the nurse of arms" signify?

Answer 1

Part A: The meter of this poem is not specified.

Part B: Trumbull uses contrasting imagery to describe his vision for the future of the nation. He first describes a "savage" and dark past and then a bright and prosperous future, where "Fair Freedom" displays her ensigns and peace and plenty bless the land.

Part C: Trumbull uses personification in describing "Fair Freedom" and the "Western World". He uses this technique to give human qualities to these concepts, adding emotional impact and making them relatable to the reader.

Part D: This poem is characterized as a work from the age of reason because of its focus on reason, science, and the ideal of progress. Trumbull's vision of a bright future for the nation is based on these Enlightenment principles.

Part E: The phrase "Queen of empires and the nurse of arms" signifies that Trumbull sees the future of the nation as a powerful and influential one, not only in terms of military strength but also in terms of cultural and intellectual power. The use of "nurse of arms" suggests that the nation will also foster and cultivate its military power, rather than just relying on it.