Balin and Balan by Alfred Tennyson
"BALIN AND BALAN" is a narrative poem by Alfred Tennyson, published in 1849. The poem tells the story of two brothers, Balin and Balan, who are knights of King Arthur's Round Table. The poem explores themes of loyalty, honor, and betrayal as the brothers embark on a quest to retrieve a magical sword. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and obstacles, including a wicked sorceress and a treacherous knight. Ultimately, Balin is killed in battle, leaving Balan to continue their quest alone. The poem ends with Balan's reflection on his brother's sacrifice and his own sense of guilt and regret.
By Alfred Tennyson · First published 1849 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Drama · 3,210 words
First lines
King Pellam owed Arthur some tribute money so Arthur told three of his knights to go see about it and collect it for him.
"Very well," said one of the knights, "but listen, on the way to King
What this Textopian page supports
Balin and Balan is listed on Textopian as a novella by Alfred Tennyson, dated 1849 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Alfred Tennyson
- Date: 1849 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Drama, Historical Fiction
- Length: 3,210 words
- Structure: 1 section, 53 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Balin and Balan?
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — This work is a poem by the famous poet Alfred Tennyson, making it belong predominantly in the genre of poetry.
- Fantasy — The poem is about Balin and Balan, knights of Arthurian legend, implying elements of fantasy.
- Drama — With a tragic end and complex relationships, the plot of the poem has dramatic elements.
- Historical Fiction — Set in the era of King Arthur, this work is historical but with fictional liberties taken.
Tags
poetry · fantasy · adventure · romance · classic · literature · British · Victorian · symbolism · mythology · folklore · legend