When Lovely Woman Stoops to Folly

Name: When Lovely Woman Stoops to Folly
Author: Oliver Goldsmith

The poem explores themes of love, betrayal, and the consequences of folly. It begins with the lament of a woman who, having succumbed to folly, realizes too late the treachery of men. The emotional turmoil she experiences is profound, as she grapples with guilt and shame. The speaker questions what can alleviate her sorrow or cleanse her of her guilt, suggesting that no artifice can truly remedy her situation. The poem suggests that the only escape from her anguish is death, highlighting the severity of her predicament. This stark conclusion underscores the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, particularly regarding their virtue and the repercussions of their choices. The work reflects on the fragility of human relationships and the often harsh judgments faced by women in the context of love and betrayal. The imagery evokes a sense of despair, emphasizing the internal conflict of the woman as she navigates her feelings of regret and loss. The poem serves as a commentary on the societal norms of the time, critiquing the double standards that allow men to betray without consequence while women bear the brunt of societal judgment. Ultimately, the piece encapsulates the tragic consequences of misplaced trust and the societal constraints that dictate the lives of women, leaving them vulnerable to the whims of men. The finality of death as a means of escape reflects a grim reality, suggesting that the emotional scars of betrayal can be insurmountable. The work resonates with the timeless struggle of individuals facing the repercussions of their choices within the confines of societal expectations.

By Oliver Goldsmith · First published 1766 · Genre: Poetry, Drama, Romanticism · 91 words

First lines

FROM ‘THE VICAR OF WAKEFIELD'

WHEN lovely woman stoops to folly, And finds too late that men betray, What charm can soothe her melancholy, What art can wash her guilt away?

The only art her guilt to cover, To hide her shame from every eye, To give repentance to her lover, And wring his bosom, is-to die.

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When Lovely Woman Stoops to Folly is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oliver Goldsmith, dated 1766 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Oliver Goldsmith
Date: 1766 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Drama, Romanticism, Tragedy, Social Commentary
Length: 91 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of love, betrayal, and regret.
Drama — The themes of folly and emotional turmoil suggest a dramatic narrative, often explored in theatrical contexts.
Romanticism — The exploration of deep emotions and personal experiences aligns with Romantic literary themes.
Tragedy — The subject matter involves themes of guilt and despair, characteristic of tragic literature.