Eighteen Hundred and Eleven
Anna Laetitia Barbauld’s poem “Eighteen Hundred and Eleven” is a reflection on the state of the world in the early 19th century. The poem begins with a description of the world as a “dark and dismal scene”, with “the stormy winds of war” raging across Europe. Barbauld then goes on to describe the effects of war on the people of Europe, with “the poor man’s heart” being “oppressed with care” and “the widow’s tears” flowing freely. She also laments the destruction of the natural world, with “the forests fall” and “the birds of song” being silenced. The poem then shifts to a more hopeful tone, as Barbauld calls on the people of Europe to “awake” and “arise” from their slumber. She encourages them to “cast away the chains of slavery” and “break the yoke of tyranny”, and to “build a temple of peace”. The poem ends with a call for the people of Europe to “join in one great union” and “spread the gospel of love”. The poem is a powerful reflection on the state of the world in the early 19th century, and a call for the people of Europe to unite in the face of adversity. It is a reminder of the power of hope and unity in the face of adversity, and a call for people to come together to create a better world.
By Anna Laetitia Barbauld · First published 1812 · Genre: Romantic Poetry, Historical Fiction, Political Poetry