What is the irony of the line Look on my works ye mighty and despair?
The inscription on the pedestal reads, “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look at my works, Ye Mighty, and despair!” The irony of this statement is that there are no longer any “works” left to marvel at.
What is the irony of Ozymandias statement Look on my works ye mighty and despair?
The irony in the poem lies in the fact that the mighty ruler had the following words engraved on his statue “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings; Look upon my works ye Mighty and despair!” These words conveyed he was so powerful that no other king could surpass him.
What is ironic about the words inscribed on the pedestal Look on my works ye mighty and despair !’?
So he got the following words written on the pedestal of his statue, “My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings: Look on my works, Ye Mighty, and despair! Even his huge statue lies in ruins. This irony teaches us that the pride of the material power and glory is a folly. Everything in this world is subject to decay.
What does despair mean in Ozymandias?
In this poem, the word “despair” has a double meaning. Its first is the meaning that Ozymandias intended. He wants other rulers to look at his mighty kingdom—his “works”—and despair of even thinking of trying to rival him. Ozymandias is no longer a mighty king ruling a great kingdom.
Is Ozymandias ironic or tragic?
The statue is of Ozymandias (also known as Ramesses II or Ramses the Great). The irony is situational. The point of the statue is to emphasize the greatness of the Pharaoh and the way his works and his fame, like the stone of the statue, will endure forever.
What is the message of the poem Ozymandias?
The poem Ozymandias is about the transitory nature of life. It asserts that all that we gain in life—wealth, fame and power—are all temporary and are at the mercy of greater forces. It also highlights the irony of King Ozymandias’ arrogance.
Why is the viewer really in despair?
The viewer should actually despair when he sees the pitiable condition of the statue of Ozymandias as it lies broken and destroyed in the sand.
What is the central theme of the poem Ozymandias?
The central theme of “Ozymandias” could be the finite life cycle of humanity and the human wish to leave a lasting impact. The irony of the story lies in Ozymandias’ insistence on remaining an immortal force, only to have his monuments crumble among the sands of history.