Question

Explain how “The Dungeon” is a reflection of the Romantic Era. Why is the subject of the poem a good topic for the Romantic Era? Which three lines best demonstrate qualities of the Romantic Era?

Answer 1

The Dungeon is a poem which reflects the Romantic Era because, as most of them, it is a political and passionate piece.

This is a good topic for the Romantic Era because the author, with this piece, reflects the truth and shows concern about the well-being of the common man.

For demonstrating the qualities of the Romantic Era I would chose these three lines because Romantic Era is all about emotions and because the author, in these lines, questions himself about "the innocence of the poor brother that offend us" in a very sensitive and emotional way, trying to break seted standards:

Is this the only cure? Merciful God!

Each poor and natural outlet shrivell'd up / By ignorance and parching poverty

And stagnate and corrupt; till changed to poison, / They break out on him, like a loathsome plague-spot