Question

Which archetypal situation best represents the circumstances portrayed in Margaret Atwood's "Siren Song"? (2 points)

Answer 1

Answer:

E) Man succumbs to pride.

Explanation:

"Siren Song" is written from the perspective of the siren herself, trying to lure in the sailors.  The reason why the poem is about a man succumbing to pride is because later on in the poem she tells the sailors that "I will tell the secret to you,  / to you, only to you.  / Come closer. This song  / is a cry for help: Help me!  / Only you, only you can,  / you are unique" (lines 19-24). This line is about the siren telling the man that only he can save her from her misery because he is special. This pride that she is giving him is what causes him to jump overboard to try and help her, ultimately leading to his death. As the siren states, "Alas  / it is a boring song  / but it works every time." (lines 25-27). Hope this helps!