The minister, or darkness — still dost sway
This age of ours; thine eagle's soaring flight
Bears us, all breathless, after it away.
The eye that from thy presence fain would stray,
Shuns thee in vain; thy mighty shadow thrown
Rests on all pictures of the living day,
And on the threshold of our time alone,
Dazzling, yet sombre, stands thy form, Napoleon!
Thus, when the admiring stranger's steps explore
The subject-lands that 'neath Vesuvius be,
Whether he wind along the enchanting shore
To Portici from fair Parthenope,
Or, lingering long in dreamy reverie,
O'er loveliest Ischia's od'rous isle he stray,
Wooed by whose breath the soft and am'rous sea
Seems like some languishing sultana's lay,
A voice for very sweets that scarce can win its way.
Him, whether Paestum's solemn fane detain,
Shrouding his soul with meditation's power;
Or at Pozzuoli, to the sprightly strain
Of tarantella danced 'neath Tuscan tower,
Listening, he while away the evening hour;
Or wake the echoes, mournful, lone and deep,
Of that sad city, in its dreaming bower
By the volcano seized, where mansions keep
The likeness which they wore at that last fatal sleep;
Or be his bark at Posillippo laid,
While as the swarthy boatman at his side
Chants Tasso's lays to Virgil's pleased shade,
Ever he sees, throughout that circuit wide,
From shaded nook or sunny lawn espied,
From rocky headland viewed, or flow'ry shore,
From sea, and spreading mead alike descried,
The Giant Mount, tow'ring all objects o'er,
And black'ning with its breath th' horizon evermore!
Poem Analysis:
"Angel or Demon" by Victor Hugo is a contemplative poem that reflects on the enigmatic and influential figure of Napoleon Bonaparte. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Hugo explores the complex legacy of Napoleon, portraying him as a figure of both light and darkness, capable of inspiring awe and fear in equal measure. Here is an analysis of the key themes and elements in "Angel or Demon":
Ambiguity of Napoleon: The poem grapples with the dual nature of Napoleon, portraying him as a figure of paradoxical qualities. He is described as both an angel and a demon, symbolizing the contradictory aspects of his character and his impact on history. This ambiguity reflects the complexity of Napoleon's legacy, which continues to be debated and interpreted by historians and scholars.
Influence and Power: Hugo emphasizes Napoleon's immense influence and power, suggesting that his presence looms large over the age in which he lived. The imagery of Napoleon's "mighty shadow" suggests his overwhelming influence on the course of history and the collective consciousness of humanity. Despite his fall from power, Napoleon's legacy continues to shape the world around him.
Symbolism of Vesuvius: The poem uses the imagery of Mount Vesuvius and its surroundings to evoke a sense of awe and grandeur. Vesuvius, with its volatile nature and ominous presence, serves as a metaphor for Napoleon himself. Like the volcano, Napoleon is portrayed as both magnificent and dangerous, capable of both great achievements and destructive actions.
Cultural References: Hugo incorporates references to Italian landmarks and cultural symbols, such as Paestum, Posillipo, and the tarantella dance. These references add depth and richness to the poem, situating Napoleon within a specific historical and cultural context. They also evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a bygone era of beauty and romance.
Themes of Transience and Mortality: The poem reflects on the transient nature of human existence and the passage of time. References to ancient ruins, dreamy reveries, and the fatal sleep of Pompeii underscore the theme of mortality and the impermanence of human achievements. Despite Napoleon's grandeur and power, the poem reminds readers of the ephemeral nature of glory and fame.
In conclusion, "Angel or Demon" by Victor Hugo is a poignant meditation on the complex and enigmatic figure of Napoleon Bonaparte. Through vivid imagery and profound insights, Hugo invites readers to contemplate the enduring legacy of Napoleon and the larger themes of power, influence, and mortality in human history. The poem's exploration of light and darkness, beauty and danger, serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human nature and the forces that shape our world.