In 'The Flea' how does the poet present the speaker's attitudes towards relationships?

Intro - Introduce the poet (John Donne), text and context of the time (16th century). Introduce your line of argument (i.e. The speaker is going against Christianity's expectations of what a relationship should be) and LINK BACK to question.1 - Use of structure and rhyme scheme - are they significant? (AABBCCDDD rhyme scheme, three stanzas of nine lines each).2- Use of language - 'sucks', 'blood', 'sin', 'innocence' - the connotations of these words. These relate to sexual intercourse, loss of virginity/innocence, how does God view these acts?3 - Imagery -Religious imagery - God's view versus the Speaker's view on relationships. Virginity is sacred, link to the Virgin Mary as a religious symbol. 'Loss of maidenhead', 'marriage bed' and 'marriage temple' all relate to religion. Does the Speaker think he is above God?Imagery of the Flea - 'two bloods mingled be' 'sucked first' 'flea's death' - the Flea has been used as an analogy/excuse for sexual intercourse - but why? Connotations of dirt, filth, low-life - why has Donne done this?Conclusion - What is Donne's main message? How has this been made through the points made in the essay? Does this agree/disagree with your argument? Always relate your conclusion and argument back to the question.

Answered by Charlie F. English tutor

2518 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I write a successful introduction?


Compare and contrast how Owen explores the theme of death in two of his poems


How can I prepare for an unseen poetry question?


In the poem Mametz Wood, Owen Sheers explores ideas about conflict. Write about the ways in which Sheers presents conflict in this poem.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences