The Epical Worlds of Myth and Reality in Matthew Arnold's Poetry

Abstract

The Victorian poet and critic, Matthew Arnold was a Christian humanist, strived to tackle with the ailments and aches of Modernity which had afflicted the Late Victorian Communities. His works which are tinted with romantic elements are modern works which communicate the unspeakable, i.e., and resonate his universal message in the most effective way. Arnold’s poems represent two contrasted epical worlds; one mythological and a realistic one which are populated by heroic character. However, in spite of their different natures these two worlds always create a unified platform for its inhabitants. Due to this quality Arnold's stories become more universalized and this realm portrays heroes who take part in the epical struggle against evil in order to save the 'Humane Values'. This research sheds light on some of his poems which depict such themes and techniques.