Authority in Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience

Authority

The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience, which can be corrupt or manipulated by societal institutions.

Criticism of Religious Authority

Blake critiques the corrupt authority within religious institutions and instead advocates for divine authority from God.

Holy Thursday (SOI)

A poem by Blake that highlights the priorities of priests, criticizing their lack of care for children despite having authority.

Manipulation through Religion

Religion is often used by authority figures to manipulate societal expectations, as seen in the absent parents in 'The Chimney-Sweeper'.

Symbolism of the Lion

In 'The Little Girl Found', the lion represents a majestic and spiritual figure of authority, embodying regality and otherworldly presence.

God as a Guiding Authority

Blake portrays God as a nurturing and guiding figure rather than a controlling one, as demonstrated in the imagery of the shepherd.

Cold and Usurous Authority

In 'Holy Thursday', the cold treatment of the oppressed underscores the failure of authority figures to care for the needy.

Suffering and Privilege

Blake criticizes how those in authority benefit from the suffering of others, claiming they create a 'heaven of our misery.'

Fear of Authority

In 'A Little Girl Lost', the juxtaposition of joy and fear reflects societal shame imposed by corrupted authority figures.

Imperative Command in 'Introduction'

The commanding tone in 'Introduction' introduces themes of prophetic vision and divine communication, showcasing authority that is not necessarily negative.

Earth's Jealous Father

In 'Earth’s Answer', the male authority figure oppresses women's work, symbolizing the destructive nature of authority.

Hierarchy and Sacrifice in 'London'

Blake critiques the hierarchy of power, illustrated through the metaphor of soldiers' sacrifices benefiting the monarchy.