In William Butler Yeats’ poem ‘The Second Coming’, the rough beast is a symbol that has left readers questioning its meaning for over a century. Many scholars have attempted to decipher its meaning while others have coined their own interpretation of it. But what does the rough beast symbolize in the ‘The Second Coming’?
For starters, the rough beast is not portrayed as a creature that people would want to encounter. With its ferocious and intimidating nature, the rough beast is a symbol of chaos and destruction. It is the embodiment of societal unrest and represents the dark forces that exist in the world. However, for Yeats, the rough beast is no villain. In fact, he sees it as a force that is needed to bring about a new world order.
As the poem progresses, the rough beast is described as “slouching towards Bethlehem”. This phrase has become one of the most famous metaphors in the English language. The image that it creates is that of a slow but unstoppable force that is headed towards its destination. Some scholars believe that the rough beast is a metaphor for the birth of a new age, a time of great change and upheaval. Whatever the interpretation, one thing is clear – the rough beast symbolizes the coming of a new era, and its presence is ominous and unavoidable.
The historical and cultural context of “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats wrote “The Second Coming” in 1919, shortly after the end of World War I. This time period was marked by a sense of disillusionment and fear as society struggled to find meaning and order in the wake of the catastrophic war. It was also a time of political unrest, marked by the Russian Revolution and resulting in the rise of communism and socialism.
Yeats himself was deeply interested in mysticism and the occult, which can be seen in his writing. He was also heavily influenced by Irish history and mythology, particularly the ancient Celtic concept of the gyres – spirals of time that represent the cycles of life and history.
Key themes in “The Second Coming”
- Fear and uncertainty
- Disillusionment with society and politics
- The collapse of traditional values and structures
- The idea of cyclical history and the end of an era
- The potential for apocalyptic events
Symbols and metaphors in “The Second Coming”
“The Second Coming” is a poem rich in symbolism and metaphor. The most well-known of these is the “rough beast” that slouches towards Bethlehem, which has been interpreted in many different ways over the years. Some common interpretations include:
- The beast represents the coming of a new age, marked by chaos and destruction.
- It represents the collapse of traditional Christian values and the rise of new, darker forces.
- The beast is a manifestation of the cyclical nature of history, indicating the end of one era and the beginning of another.
Other key symbols in the poem include the falcon (representing traditional values and order) and the widening gyre (representing the cycles of history).
The legacy of “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats’ “The Second Coming” has become one of the most widely studied and analyzed poems of the 20th century. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to capture the fear, uncertainty, and anxiety of a specific time period while also touching on universal themes that are still relevant today. The poem has been referenced in countless works of literature, music, and popular culture, cementing its place in the canon of Western art.
| Year | Artistic Reference |
|---|---|
| 1939 | W.H. Auden’s poem “September 1, 1939” |
| 1961 | Chinua Achebe’s novel “Things Fall Apart” |
| 1964 | The Beatles’ song “The End” |
| 1977 | Joan Didion’s essay “The White Album” |
Today, “The Second Coming” continues to be analyzed and discussed in the context of modern society and politics, attesting to its lasting impact on the literary world.
The Life and Works of William Butler Yeats
William Butler Yeats was a renowned Irish poet, playwright, and nationalist. Born in Dublin in 1865, Yeats spent most of his early years in Sligo, where he developed an interest in folklore and mysticism, which would later influence his works.
In his early years, Yeats was known for his romantic and lyrical poems, but as he grew older, his works became more philosophical and symbolic. Yeats was heavily involved in the Irish Literary Revival, which aimed to promote Irish culture and language and make Irish literature more accessible to the public.
What Does the Rough Beast Symbolize in “The Second Coming”?
- Yeats’ famous poem, “The Second Coming,” has been interpreted in many ways, but its central image, the rough beast, is commonly seen as a symbol of the apocalypse and the end of an era.
- According to Yeats, the world was about to enter a new phase, and the old values and beliefs were crumbling. The rough beast represented the arrival of a new order, one that was chaotic and destructive.
- The poem is also influenced by Yeats’ belief in a cyclical theory of history, where civilizations go through cycles of decline and renewal. The rough beast, in this context, represents the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one.
The Symbolism in Yeats’ Works
Yeats was known for his use of complex symbolism and metaphors in his works, drawing inspiration from various sources such as mythology, folklore, and the occult.
One recurring theme in his works was the search for spiritual and mystical truths, as well as an exploration of the human psyche and its darker aspects.
Yeats also used his poetry as a tool for political and social commentary, particularly in works such as “Easter, 1916,” which reflects on the Easter Rising and the struggle for Irish independence.
Conclusion
William Butler Yeats was a highly influential figure in Irish literature and culture, and his works continue to be studied and admired today. His use of symbolism and theme of cyclical history in “The Second Coming” has made it a timeless piece of literature that resonates with readers of all ages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Yeats’ works are deeply symbolic and complex, offering readers multiple interpretations and layers of meaning. | Some readers may find Yeats’ style and subject matter too obscure or inaccessible. |
| Yeats’ works reflect his interest in Irish culture and history, making his poetry a valuable tool for understanding the Irish Literary Revival. | Yeats’ political views and association with nationalist movements may turn off some readers who do not share his views. |
Overall, Yeats’ works continue to be celebrated for their beauty, insight, and importance in the canon of English literature.
The interpretation of the phrase “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats was a renowned Irish poet who wrote several poems reflecting his views on the political turmoil of his time. One of his most well-known works is “The Second Coming,” which is also known as “The Widening Gyre.” This poem is a reflection on the state of the world in the aftermath of World War I, and Yeats uses various symbols to convey his message. One of these symbols is the “rough beast.”
- The “rough beast” symbolizes chaos and destruction. Yeats believed that the world was spiraling out of control and that a catastrophic event was imminent. In the poem, he describes the “rough beast” as slouching towards Bethlehem, which is a biblical reference to the birthplace of Jesus. This suggests that the chaos and destruction that the “rough beast” represents will lead to the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.
- The “rough beast” also symbolizes the destructive power of human nature. Yeats believed that the atrocities committed during World War I were a result of the worst aspects of humanity, and that these same forces would continue to wreak havoc on the world. The “rough beast” is a reflection of this dark side of human nature.
- Finally, the “rough beast” represents the antithesis of Christ. In the poem, Yeats describes the “rough beast” as “twenty centuries of stony sleep / vexed to nightmare by a rocking cradle.” This suggests that the birth of Christ was a long time ago, and that the world has since moved away from his teachings. The “rough beast” is the opposite of Christ, and its arrival signals the end of an era of peace and the beginning of a new era of chaos and destruction.
Overall, the “rough beast” in “The Second Coming” is a symbol of the chaos and destruction that Yeats saw in the world around him. It is a reflection of the worst aspects of human nature and represents the antithesis of Christ. Its arrival signals the end of an era of peace and the beginning of a new era of chaos and destruction.
| Symbol | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Rough Beast | Chaos and destruction |
| Rough Beast | Destructive power of human nature |
| Rough Beast | The antithesis of Christ |
In conclusion, understanding the symbolism of the “rough beast” in “The Second Coming” requires an understanding of Yeats’ views on the state of the world in the aftermath of World War I. The “rough beast” represents chaos, destruction, and the worst aspects of human nature. Its arrival signals the end of an era of peace and the beginning of a new era of chaos and destruction.
The symbolism of the falcon in “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats’ poem “The Second Coming” is renowned for its depiction of a chaotic world where the traditional values have lost their significance, and the present is uncontrollable. Yeats uses a number of symbols, including the rough beast, falcon, and sphinx, to reflect the world’s state of chaos. In this article, we will discuss the symbolism of the falcon in “The Second Coming”.
- Falcon as a symbol of power: The falcon is a bird of prey known for its speed, agility, and power. In the poem, the falcon symbolizes the strength and power of the forces that are taking control of the world. The falcon represents the dominant force that is taking over the existing order and bringing forth a new one.
- Falcon as a symbol of destruction: The falcon is also a symbol of destruction. Its claws and sharp beak signify violence and destruction. In the poem, the falcon’s “falcon cannot hear the falconer” indicates the breakdown of communication between the people and the forces that control them. This breakdown leads to chaos and destruction.
- Falcon as a symbol of hope: Despite representing destruction and chaos, the falcon can also be seen as a symbol of hope. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the falcon was associated with the god Horus, who was the god of the sun, war, and protection. In the poem, the falcon’s presence suggests that there might be hope for the world, and the new order that arises from the chaos might be positive.
In summary, the falcon is a complex symbol in Yeats’ “The Second Coming”. It represents power, destruction, and hope. The falcon embodies the dominant force that is bringing change to the existing order and creating a new one. However, this change is not without violence and destruction. There is also hope that the new order might lead to a better world.
The connection between “The Second Coming” and Yeats’ philosophy of history
William Butler Yeats, a renowned Irish poet, has been known for his unique take on history and its cyclical nature. This philosophy of history is evident in his poem “The Second Coming” where he uses the imagery of the rough beast to symbolize the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.
- The cycle of history: Yeats believed that history is not linear, rather it is cyclical. He saw history as a series of epochs that were characterized by different values and beliefs. In “The Second Coming,” he refers to the end of one epoch and the beginning of a new one with the arrival of the rough beast.
- The idea of gyres: Yeats developed the concept of gyres, which refers to the spiraling motion that is evident in human history. According to him, the movement of history is not linear, but rather it moves in a spiraling motion where the epochs overlap each other. The rough beast in “The Second Coming” could be seen as the embodiment of the new epoch that is about to emerge.
- The collapse of civilizations: Yeats believed that the collapse of civilizations is a necessary process in the cyclical nature of history. He believed that every civilization has a certain lifespan, and when it reaches its end, it collapses. In “The Second Coming,” he implies that the collapse of the current civilization is inevitable with the arrival of the rough beast.
Overall, “The Second Coming” is a reflection of Yeats’ philosophy of history, where he portrays the end of an era and the beginning of a new one as a cyclical process that is necessary for the progress and evolution of human history.
As Tim Ferriss said, “we are all the authors of our own limitations” and Yeats’ philosophy of history suggests that the limitations of a civilization are predetermined. However, it’s up to us to transcend beyond those limitations and create a new epoch that will shape the course of human history.
| Epoch | Values and beliefs |
|---|---|
| Age of Reason | Democracy, individualism, rationality |
| Victorian Age | Morality, duty, industriousness |
| Postmodernism | Fragmentation, skepticism, irony |
The table above demonstrates Yeats’ belief in the cyclical nature of history and the different values and beliefs that characterize each epoch.
The Use of Christian Imagery in “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats’ poem “The Second Coming” is a prime example of how Christian imagery can be used to convey a deeper meaning in literature. The poem describes the chaos and destruction happening during the post-World War I era and the imminent arrival of an ominous creature referred to as the “rough beast”.
The Number 6
One of the most prominent Christian references in “The Second Coming” is the use of the number 6. The poem states, “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?” (lines 2-3). The city of Bethlehem is significant in Christianity as it is where Jesus was born. The use of the number 6 alludes to the biblical concept of the Antichrist as the number 666 is associated with him.
Furthermore, the repetition of the number 6 throughout the poem adds to the ominous and unsettling tone. The poem describes a world where “The falcon cannot hear the falconer” (line 7) and “Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world” (line 9). The repetition of “sixty” in line 10 further emphasizes the chaos and the impending arrival of the “rough beast”.
| Line | Text |
|---|---|
| 2-3 | And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born? |
| 10 | The darkness drops again; but now I know That twenty centuries of stony sleep Were vexed to nightmare by a rocking cradle, And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born? |
In conclusion, the use of Christian imagery in “The Second Coming” adds layers of meaning to the poem. The number 6 represents the idea of the Antichrist, which adds to the overall sense of unease and impending doom in the poem. The repetition of the number 6 also highlights the chaos and destruction in the world depicted in the poem.
The significance of the juxtaposition of the “center” and the “circumference”
In “The Second Coming,” the symbol of the “rough beast” represents chaos and destruction, as well as the consequences of humanity’s actions. However, the poem also contains a theme of balance and harmony, which is demonstrated through the juxtaposition of the “center” and the “circumference.”
- The “center” symbolizes order, stability, and the established systems and institutions that govern society. This is represented in the poem through the lines “Things fall apart; the center cannot hold / Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world.” The “center” that cannot hold refers to the breakdown of established systems due to forces beyond its control.
- The “circumference,” on the other hand, represents chaos, instability, and the potential for change and evolution. This is seen in the lines “Surely some revelation is at hand; / Surely the Second Coming is at hand.” The “revelation” and “Second Coming” referred to here represent a change or shift in the world order, and the potential for a new system to emerge from the chaos.
- Furthermore, the use of the number 7 in the poem emphasizes this theme of balance. The number 7 is often associated with completion, wholeness, and harmony, as seen in the Seven Days of Creation in the Bible or the seven chakras in Hindu philosophy. In “The Second Coming,” the number 7 appears multiple times throughout the poem, such as in the line “Twenty centuries of stony sleep / Were vexed to nightmare by a rocking cradle, / And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, / Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?” Here, the “twenty centuries” represent 10 sets of 7, emphasizing the idea of completion and wholeness.
Overall, the juxtaposition of the “center” and the “circumference” in “The Second Coming” highlights the delicate balance between stability and chaos, and the potential for change and evolution to emerge from tumultuous times. The use of the number 7 further emphasizes this theme of balance and completion, making it a crucial element of the poem’s symbolism.
The Relevance of “The Second Coming” to Modern Times and Politics
Despite being written in 1919, “The Second Coming” by W.B. Yeats remains a relevant piece in modern times. The poem’s depiction of societal upheaval and the cyclical nature of history resonate with current events and political climates around the world.
The poem describes a “rough beast” that slouches towards Bethlehem, waiting to be born. This beast symbolizes the chaos and destruction that comes with societal collapse and represents the fear of the unknown. In modern times, this fear can be seen in the rise of extremist groups, the threat of terrorism, and the erosion of democracy. The poem warns us that if we do not learn from history, we will be doomed to repeat it.
- The rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of democracy:
- The threat of terrorism and extremism:
- The cycle of history:
The poem’s warning about the “widening gyre” and the collapse of the social order is a pertinent one in today’s political climate. The rise of authoritarianism in countries like Russia and Turkey, as well as the erosion of democratic institutions in the United States and across Europe, is a clear indication of the potential for societal collapse.
The fear of the unknown, represented by the “rough beast,” is also prevalent in modern society. The threat of terrorism and extremism has fueled xenophobic and racist ideologies, leading to the rise of far-right groups across the world.
The cyclical nature of history depicted in the poem is also relevant in modern times. In an age of globalization and technology, we often fall into the trap of believing that we have progressed beyond the problems of the past, leading us to repeat the mistakes of our ancestors.
Overall, “The Second Coming” remains a poignant warning about the dangers of societal collapse and the importance of learning from history. Its relevance to modern times and politics highlights the need for greater awareness and action to prevent the rise of the “rough beast” and ensure a stable and prosperous future for all.
References:
| Source | Title | URL |
|---|---|---|
| The Guardian | “The Second Coming” by William Butler Yeats | https://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2010/jun/28/poetry-william-butler-yeats-second-coming |
| The New Yorker | How William Butler Yeats Became a Far-Right Hero | https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2020/10/19/how-william-butler-yeats-became-a-far-right-hero |
The themes of nihilism and apocalypticism in “The Second Coming”
William Butler Yeats’ poem “The Second Coming” presents a bleak picture of society and humanity. It explores themes of nihilism and apocalypticism, which are prevalent throughout the poem. These themes reflect the anxieties and disillusionment that Yeats experienced during the early 20th century, where the world was rapidly changing and experiencing significant social, political, and technological upheavals.
The symbolism of the rough beast in “The Second Coming”
The rough beast is one of the most well-known symbols in “The Second Coming.” It appears in the poem’s closing lines, where Yeats writes, “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, / Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?” The imagery of the rough beast is unsettling and ominous, and it represents Yeats’ belief that anarchy and chaos are approaching.
The rough beast symbolizes many things throughout the poem. It’s a representation of the decay in society and a belief that humanity is declining. The image of the beast slouching towards Bethlehem can be seen as a metaphor for the collapse of Judeo-Christian values. The rough beast can also be interpreted as a representation of the darkness within humanity that is always waiting to emerge.
Nihilism in “The Second Coming”
- “The Second Coming” is often seen as a nihilistic poem, one that is deeply pessimistic about humanity’s future.
- The poem’s title is itself a nod to the idea that society is collapsing and that nothing will come to replace it.
- Yeats’ use of powerful images like “blood-dimmed tide” and “pitiless as the sun” convey a sense of hopelessness and despair.
- The poem’s worldview is one where traditional values and beliefs have been destroyed, and there is little hope for a brighter future.
Apocalypticism in “The Second Coming”
The theme of apocalypticism, or the end of the world, is central to “The Second Coming.” Yeats saw the world as being on the brink of collapse, and he believed that the end was near.
The poem is filled with images of destruction and chaos, such as “the falcon cannot hear the falconer” and “Things fall apart; the center cannot hold.” These images suggest that the world is falling apart, and that there is little hope for it to be put back together.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| “blood-dimmed tide” | Violence and chaos |
| “ceremony of innocence” | The innocence and naivety that will be destroyed |
| “gyre” | A metaphor for the cycles of history and the end of one era and the beginning of another |
| “slouches towards Bethlehem” | The impending arrival of chaos and anarchy |
Overall, “The Second Coming” is a deeply unsettling poem that captures Yeats’ sense of despair and hopelessness. Despite its grim message, it remains a powerful and evocative work that continues to resonate with readers today.
The Importance of the Poem’s Use of Language and Form
One of the key elements of W.B. Yeats’ “The Second Coming” is its use of vivid language and powerful imagery. The poem’s language is both evocative and symbolic, giving the reader a sense of the chaos and uncertainty in the world during the time period in which it was written.
Yeats’ use of a variety of poetic techniques, including rhyme, meter and repetition, gives the poem a musical quality that is both haunting and memorable. This intricate use of language is critical to the poem’s success in conveying its message to the reader.
- The poem is written in iambic pentameter, which gives it a strong, steady beat that underpins the chaos and turmoil described in the text.
- Yeats’ use of repetition, as in the phrase “things fall apart” and “the center cannot hold,” emphasizes the poem’s themes of decay and instability.
- The use of vivid imagery, such as the “rough beast” and the falcon, adds a layer of symbolism to the poem, inviting the reader to interpret its meaning on multiple levels.
The structure of the poem is also important in conveying its themes. The first stanza sets the stage for the chaos and turmoil that the speaker sees in the world. The second stanza introduces the idea of the “rough beast,” which symbolizes the darkness that threatens to consume the world. And the final stanza, with its repetition of the phrase “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, / Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?” leaves the reader with a sense of impending doom and uncertainty.
Overall, the language and form of “The Second Coming” work together to create a powerful and evocative portrait of a world in flux. The repeated motifs and symbols, combined with the subtle rhythms and structure of the poem, serve to emphasize its themes and make it a lasting and memorable contribution to the literary canon.
The Use of Symbolism in “The Second Coming”
Yeats’ use of powerful symbolism in “The Second Coming” is a key reason for the poem’s lasting impact on readers. The most prominent symbol is the “rough beast,” which represents the darkness and chaos that threatens to consume the world. This symbol is introduced in the second stanza and dominates the poem’s final words.
Another important symbol in the poem is the falcon, which is used to contrast the chaos and darkness of the “rough beast.” In the first stanza, the falcon is “turning and turning in widening gyre,” indicating a sense of order and control. This contrasts sharply with the “rough beast” in the second stanza, which represents disorder and chaos.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| The Rough Beast | Chaos and disorder |
| The Falcon | Order and control |
| The “widening gyre” | Represents the cycle of history and the idea that the world is constantly in flux. |
These symbols, combined with Yeats’ powerful use of language, create a complex and multi-layered portrait of a world in crisis. By using these symbols, Yeats is able to convey a sense of the uncertainty and chaos of the time period, while also invoking themes of order, control, and the cyclical nature of history.
FAQs: What does the Rough Beast Symbolize in The Second Coming?
1. What is The Second Coming?
The Second Coming is a poem written by William Butler Yeats that contemplates the end of the world and the start of a new era.
2. What does the Rough Beast represent?
The Rough Beast is a symbol of chaos, destruction, and evil. It represents the end of the current era and the beginning of a new one, according to Yeats’ poem.
3. Is the Rough Beast a physical creature?
No, the Rough Beast is a metaphorical creature in Yeats’ poem. It is not something that can be seen or touched, but rather, a representation of the forces of darkness and disorder.
4. Why is the Rough Beast described as “slouching” towards Bethlehem?
The phrase “slouching towards Bethlehem” suggests a sense of inevitability and unstoppable progress. The Rough Beast is coming towards its destination, which is not a physical place, but rather, a metaphor for the end of the current era.
5. What is the significance of the line “The center cannot hold”?
This line refers to the idea that the forces of chaos and disorder are becoming increasingly more powerful, to the point where they threaten to destroy the stability of the world. The “center” represents order and stability, which is gradually giving way to chaos.
6. What is the message of The Second Coming?
The Second Coming is a warning about the impending collapse of society and the rise of chaos and evil. Yeats suggests that the forces of darkness are gaining strength and that the world will soon be plunged into a period of darkness and disorder.
7. What can we learn from The Second Coming?
The Second Coming serves as a reminder of the fragility of civilization and the potential for chaos and destruction. It encourages us to be mindful of the forces that threaten to bring about our downfall and to work towards creating a more stable and just society.
Closing: Thanks for reading, come back again soon!
Thank you for taking the time to learn about The Second Coming and what the Rough Beast symbolizes. Yeats’ poem is a powerful reminder of the potential for chaos and destruction in the world, and the need for us to work towards building a more stable and just society. We hope you found this article informative and engaging. Be sure to check back soon for more content!