Before the Temple by Madison Cawein

Name: Before the Temple
Author: Madison Cawein

The poem presents a scene set at a temple, where a young woman sits despondently on the marble steps. Her physical beauty is likened to that of a dryad, suggesting a connection to nature and a sense of ethereal grace. The atmosphere is imbued with a sense of longing and melancholy. A priest of Bacchus, the god of wine, passes by but does not engage with her, mistaking her for a grief-stricken follower of the god. This highlights her isolation and the depth of her sorrow, as she is perceived as someone lost in her own despair. A shepherdess approaches, adorned with woodland flowers meant for the goddess Diana. The shepherdess embodies youthful innocence and beauty, yet she is hesitant to look directly at the woman, indicating a sense of reverence or fear. This moment emphasizes the contrast between the two figures, with the shepherdess representing hope and purity, while the woman on the steps embodies a more profound sadness. As the scene unfolds, the arrival of young warriors from Argos is depicted, their armor gleaming in the light. Among them is a heroic figure, filled with joy and purpose as he heads towards the Trojan War. This imagery evokes themes of valor and destiny, juxtaposing the woman's desolation with the excitement of impending conflict and adventure. Overall, the work explores themes of beauty, loss, and the intersection of the divine with human experience, capturing a moment of stillness amidst the chaos of life and war. The contrasting emotions of the characters reflect the complexities of existence, where joy and sorrow coexist in a delicate balance.

By Madison Cawein · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Mythology, Romanticism · 242 words

First lines

I. All desolate she sate her down Upon the marble of the temple's stair. You would have thought her, with her eyes of brown, Flushed cheeks and hazel hair, A dryad dreaming there.

II. A priest of Bacchus passed, nor stopped To chide her; deeming her -- whose chiton hid But half her bosom, and whose girdle dropped -- Some grief-drowned Bassarid, The god of wine had chid.

III. With wreaths of woodland cyclamen For Dian's shrine, a shepherdess drew near, All her young thoughts on vestal beauty, when -- She dare not look for fear -- Behold the goddess here!

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Before the Temple is listed on Textopian as a poem by Madison Cawein, dated 1902 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Madison Cawein
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Mythology, Romanticism, Classical Literature, Symbolism
Length: 242 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
Mythology — The poem references mythological figures such as Bacchus and Diana, integrating themes from ancient myths.
Romanticism — The themes of nature, beauty, and emotional depth align with Romantic literary characteristics.
Classical Literature — The references to ancient Greek culture and the siege of Troy connect the work to classical literary traditions.