Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

The Lancashire Witches, by Thomas Shadwell, is a poem about the persecution of three women accused of witchcraft in England in 1612. The poem follows the story of the women as they are accused, arrested, and ultimately executed. The speaker paints a vivid picture of the scene, describing the fear and confusion of the people as well as the cruelty of the executioners. The poem also conveys a sense of sadness and tragedy, as the speaker laments the loss of innocent life and the senselessness of the persecution. Through his poem, Shadwell is able to highlight the injustice of the times and to challenge the assumptions and superstitions of the people.

The poem is written in iambic pentameter, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCD. The poem is full of imagery, as the speaker creates vivid pictures of the scene. The tone of the poem is one of sadness and anger, and the speaker expresses his outrage at the injustice that has been done to the women. The poem is also a reminder of the importance of standing up for justice and of challenging the assumptions and superstitions of the people. Through his poem, Shadwell is able to highlight the injustice of the times and to urge people to stand up for what is right.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...