In Memoriam A.H.H.

Definition

In Memoriam A.H.H. is a long poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson, written in memory of his close friend Arthur Hallam, who died unexpectedly at a young age. The poem explores themes of love, grief, and the search for meaning in the face of loss, reflecting Tennyson's deep personal sorrow while also addressing universal human experiences related to death and remembrance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Memoriam A.H.H. consists of 131 sections, each structured as a stanza with a rhyme scheme of ABAB.
2. The poem was written over a period of 17 years, reflecting Tennyson's evolving thoughts on grief and faith during that time.
3. The refrain 'I hold it true, whate'er befall; / I feel it when I sorrow most; / 'Tis better to have loved and lost / Than never to have loved at all' is one of the most famous lines from the poem.
4. Tennyson's work combines both personal mourning and broader existential questions about life and death, making it resonate with many readers across generations.
5. The poem had a significant influence on later poets and is often regarded as one of the great works of Victorian literature, showcasing Tennyson's mastery of form and emotional depth.

Review Questions

• How does Tennyson's use of structure in In Memoriam A.H.H. contribute to the poem's exploration of grief?
  • Tennyson employs a consistent stanzaic structure throughout In Memoriam A.H.H., which provides a sense of order amidst the chaos of grief. Each stanza follows a predictable ABAB rhyme scheme, allowing readers to engage with Tennyson's emotional turmoil in a structured manner. This balance between form and content mirrors the speaker's struggle to find stability in his sorrow while also emphasizing the poem's thematic depth regarding loss and remembrance.
• What role does the refrain play in In Memoriam A.H.H., and how does it reflect Tennyson’s views on love and loss?
  • The refrain 'I hold it true, whate'er befall; / I feel it when I sorrow most; / 'Tis better to have loved and lost / Than never to have loved at all' serves as a pivotal anchor throughout In Memoriam A.H.H. It encapsulates Tennyson's belief that love is inherently valuable, even if it leads to pain through loss. By repeating this sentiment, Tennyson reinforces the idea that love's existence enriches life despite its potential for heartache, ultimately advocating for embracing love as part of the human experience.
• Analyze how In Memoriam A.H.H. reflects broader themes of Victorian society and its approach to grief and faith.
  • In Memoriam A.H.H. not only expresses Tennyson’s personal grief but also captures the Victorian struggle with faith and existential questions amid societal change. The era was marked by scientific advancements and shifting beliefs that challenged traditional views on life and death. Tennyson navigates these complexities by addressing doubt and hope throughout the poem, ultimately reflecting a desire for reconciliation between personal sorrow and broader spiritual inquiries. This duality resonates with Victorian readers who grappled with similar issues during a time of profound transformation.

Related terms

Elegy: A poem or song written in honor of someone deceased, expressing sorrow and reflection on the loss.

Victorian Poetry: Poetry produced during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), often characterized by themes of morality, social issues, and personal emotion.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, often found in poetry to convey deeper meanings and emotions.