In the poem 'The Statue of the Virgin at Bernard Speaks', how does Meehan use language to challenge oppressive forces?
Understand the Problem
The question revolves around analyzing the poem 'The Statue of the Virgin at Bernard Speaks' by Meehan. The focus is on the themes of oppressive forces and the critique of the Catholic Church, particularly in the context of women's struggles with societal expectations regarding pregnancy and motherhood.
Answer
Meehan uses vibrant, forceful language to critique religious and societal oppression.
In the poem, Meehan uses vibrant and forceful language to challenge the oppressive forces of religion and societal norms. By animating the inanimate Statue of the Virgin and using imagery, she criticizes the Catholic Church and societal expectations, highlighting the suffering of marginalized individuals.
Answer for screen readers
In the poem, Meehan uses vibrant and forceful language to challenge the oppressive forces of religion and societal norms. By animating the inanimate Statue of the Virgin and using imagery, she criticizes the Catholic Church and societal expectations, highlighting the suffering of marginalized individuals.
More Information
The poem is a dramatic monologue voiced by the statue itself, allowing for a critique of the nature of veneration and the societal neglect of real human suffering.
Tips
A common mistake is to overlook how the use of voice in the poem adds depth to the critique of societal norms.
Sources
- The Statue of the Virgin at Granard Speaks: Paula Meehan - mywordinyourear.com
- Feedback on HL English Meehan Essay - Studyclix - studyclix.ie
- Meehan's virgin speaks (analysis of poetry by Paula Meehan) - christinehoffkraemer.com
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