Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Druid Urien had daughters seven" (also known as "The Castle of the Seven Shields") is a ballad written by Sir Walter Scott in 1817. It tells the story of the daughters of the druid Urien, who possessed magical abilities and attracted the attention of seven kings. The ballad explores themes of envy, betrayal, and the consequences of making pacts with dark forces.

The rhyme scheme of the ballad is irregular, with alternating rhyme patterns throughout the stanzas. The lines are written in iambic tetrameter and have a steady rhythm that helps to drive the narrative forward. The use of rhyme and rhythm enhances the musicality of the ballad and adds to its storytelling quality.

The provenance of the ballad is rooted in Scottish folklore and legends, which Sir Walter Scott often drew upon in his works. Scott was a Scottish writer and poet who played a significant role in the revival of Scottish literature and culture during the Romantic era. His writings often explored historical themes and incorporated elements of folklore and tradition.

In the context of the ballad, the story takes place in medieval Britain, where the daughters of Urien attract suitors from different regions. Each suitor is described with unique characteristics, highlighting their physical appearance and background. The ballad depicts a competition among the sisters for the affections of King Adolf, who is portrayed as young, fair, and gallant.

However, the harmony among the sisters is disrupted by envy and hatred. They make a pact with the Arch-fiend, who grants them power but with a dark cost. As they spin with their spindles, a castle rises, but it becomes a place of darkness and evil. Six of the seven kings who marry the sisters are killed, leaving only King Adolf alive.

Realizing the danger, King Adolf defends himself and slays the daughters of Urien. He seals the castle and leaves to live as an anchorite in a monastery. The ballad concludes with a warning that the treasure within the castle can only be won by a brave and prudent champion.

The ballad explores themes of temptation, betrayal, and the consequences of making pacts with dark forces. It also emphasizes the values of bravery and prudence in the face of danger. The tale combines elements of folklore, magic, and adventure to create a captivating narrative.

Overall, "The Druid Urien had daughters seven" is a compelling ballad that showcases Sir Walter Scott's skill in storytelling and his ability to incorporate elements of Scottish folklore into his works. The ballad's rhyme scheme, provenance, and thematic elements contribute to its enduring appeal and make it a notable addition to Scott's body of work.

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