A Ballad of Ancient Oaths by Eugene Field

Name: A Ballad of Ancient Oaths
Author: Eugene Field

The poem explores the idea of a romantic and idealized past, where knights were noble and chivalrous. It describes a scene where a knight takes an oath to be faithful to his lady love until death. The poem uses archaic language and imagery to create a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.

By Eugene Field · First published 1894 · Genre: Poetry, Ballad, Humor · 473 words

First lines

Ther ben a knyght, Sir Hoten hight, / That on a time did swere / In mighty store othes mickle sore, / Whiche grieved his wiffe to here.

Soth, whenne she scoft, his wiffe did oft / Swere as a lady may; / "I'faith," "I'sooth," or "lawk" in truth / Ben alle that wiffe wold say.

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A Ballad of Ancient Oaths is listed on Textopian as a poem by Eugene Field, dated 1894 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Eugene Field
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Ballad, Humor, Fantasy, Satire
Length: 473 words
Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
Ballad — The title and structure suggest it is a ballad, which often tells a story through song-like verses.
Humor — The content features comedic elements, particularly in the exaggerated swearing and the interactions between the knight and his wife.
Fantasy — The references to knights, oaths, and supernatural elements indicate a fantasy setting.