Question

What is the "vernal wood" a symbol of in these lines from Wordsworth’s "The Tables Turned"?

"One impulse from a vernal wood
May teach you more of man,
Of moral evil and of good,
Than all the sages can."

A) Divinity
B) Nature
C) Materialism
D) Philosophy

Answer 1

The 'vernal wood' from Wordsworth's 'The Tables Turned' is a symbol of nature, representing the invaluable lessons it imparts about humanity and morality, which Wordsworth posits may surpass the teachings of even the wisest sages.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the lines from William Wordsworth's poem 'The Tables Turned', the "vernal wood" symbolizes nature. Wordsworth suggests that a simple impulse from nature in spring ('vernal' meaning relating to spring) can teach us deeper truths about humanity and morality than all the wisdom of learned scholars ('sages').

It is a call to recognize the innate value and wisdom that nature holds, pushing us to learn from the natural world directly, rather than solely through academic or philosophical pursuit.

The use of 'vernal wood' in these lines is also reflective of Wordsworth's belief that a connection with nature can provide spiritual and moral enlightenment. This is in line with the Romantic ideology of the time, which emphasized the beauty and spiritual value of the natural world and often critiqued the industrialization and materialism that was becoming prevalent.