[109]. [Fennel]-field. The Greek name for [fennel] was ['ο Μαραθών] (Marathon). Hence the prophetic significance of Pan's gift to the runner.
Compare the story in Herodotus (VI., 105-106) with Browning's more spirited and poetic version. Observe how the strong patriotism, the Greek love of nature, and the Greek reverence for the gods are brought to the fore. What imagery in the poem is especially effective? What is the claim of Pheidippides—as Browning presents him—to memory as a hero? What ideals are most prominent in the poem?
MY STAR. (PAGE [40].)
[[Return]]
[4]. angled [spar]. The Iceland spar has the power of polarizing light and producing great richness and variety of color.
[11]. [Saturn]. The planet next beyond Jupiter; here chosen, perhaps, for its changing aspects. See an encyclopedia or dictionary.
This dainty love lyric is said to have been written with Mrs. Browning in mind. It needs, however, no such narrow application for its interpretation. It is the simple declaration of the lover that the loved one reveals to him qualities of soul not revealed to others. Observe the "order of lyric progress" in speaking first of nature, then of the feelings.
EVELYN HOPE. (PAGE [41].)
[page 241]
[[Return]]