Answer:
He clasps the crag with crooked hands" could represent how the eagle, or Catholics, held onto what they once had, the support of the government. ... "Like a thunderbolt he falls" represents how the eagle, or Catholics, needs to stay strong and separate themselves from the beliefs of the English government. It is personification. We have also personification in the word (hand). It is a human quality by giving him a hand. "'Crooked hands" emphasize that the man is an older man. 'The Eagle' by Alfred Lord Tennyson portrays the swiftness and agility of the king of birds. The shortness of the poem is a reference to an eagle that is ready to latch onto its prey. It is like a monarch of nature, keeping a strategic distance from the metaphorical “wrinkled sea” crawling below. And like a thunderbolt he falls." (line 6). Analysis: Tennyson employs a simile, comparing the eagle's descent to a thunderbolt. It hints at the suddenness at which life can end.
Explanation:The eagle is often a solar symbol, and can be linked to all sky gods. It signifies inspiration, release from bondage, victory, longevity, speed, pride, father and royalty; it is often an emblem for powerful nations. The Roman, French, Austrian, German, and American peoples have all adopted this image as their symbol.