ALEXANDER POPE: THE RAPE OF THE LOCK

Edition and Copyright Information

  • Edition: The Sovereign Sanctuary Press edition published in 2004.

  • Original Publication: Based on the edition by Leonard Smithers, London, 1896.

  • Public Domain Note: This publication is in the public domain.

Overview of the Poem

  • Title: The Rape of the Lock

  • Type: An Heroi-comical Poem in Five Cantos

  • Author: Written by Alexander Pope

  • Illustrations: Embellished with nine drawings by Aubrey Beardsley.

  • Motto: “Nolueram, Belinda, tuos violare capillos; Sed juvat, hoc precibus me tribuisse tuis.” —Mart.

  • Additional Note: “A tonso est hoc nomen adepta capillo.” —Ovid

Dedication

  • To: Mrs. Arabella Fermor

  • Intent: The poem initially intended to amuse, with a focus on the unguarded follies of young ladies. It was shared privately but gained public attention.

  • Publication Context: The poem was initially published in two cantos and later expanded to five cantos due to popularity.

Summary of Events Leading to the Poem

  • The poem was inspired by a real incident where Lord Petre cut off a lock of Mrs. Arabella Fermor's hair, which led to family disputes.

  • Pope wrote the poem on request from Mr. Caryl, aiming to reconcile the two families affected by the incident.

  • He released the extended version that included the addition of mythical machinery such as Sylphs and Gnomes.

Canto 1: The Beginning

  • Opening Lines: "What dire Offence from am’rous Causes springs, What mighty Contests rise from trivial Things?"

  • Invocation of a Muse: Calls upon Caryl for inspiration.

  • Belinda's Dream: Describes Belinda’s morning, the awakening of her guardian Sylph, and a vision warning her of a possible danger.

  • Sylphs Explained: Spirits believed to inhabit the air, whose actions are crucial for the purity of young women.

    • Gnomes: Mischievous spirits of the earth.

    • Sylphs: Kind spirits of the air and protectors of virtue.

Canto 2: The Game Commences

  • Description of the Gathering: Illustrates a scene where gentlemen and ladies engage in social activities near the Thames.

  • Belinda Wears a Cross: A significant moment that captures attention.

  • The Baron’s Desire: The Baron, enamored with Belinda, plots to obtain a lock of her hair.

Canto 3: The Game of Ombre

  • Ombre Game Setup: Detailed descriptions of the card game. Belinda has powerful protection from Sylphs.

  • Intervention and Conflict: Conflict develops during play, leading to humorous competitions and dramatic interactions.

Canto 4: The Theft

  • Umbriel’s Descent: A gloomy spirit searching for chaos descends to the earth seeking revenge on Belinda for having lost her lock.

  • The Full Spectrum of Emotions: Explores the aftermath of losing the lock, raising questions about female beauty and its significance in society.

Canto 5: The Resolution

  • Divine Intervention and Reflection: Reflects on the consequences of the Baron’s actions and the chaos that follows.

  • Clarissa’s Speech: Highlights beauty’s transience and the importance of virtue over outward appearances.

  • Finale: The lock is considered to ascend to the heavens, being forever remembered in the stars.

Key Themes and Motifs

  • Beauty and Vanity: The poem critiques society's obsession with physical beauty and superficial charm.

  • Gender Relations and Power: Examines the dynamics between men and women, portraying both humor and tragedy.

  • The Role of Supernatural: Uses Sylphs and personifications to comment on fate and fortune.

Literary Devices

  • Heroi-comical Style: Blends epic themes with trivial subjects.

  • Satirical Elements: Mocking not just individuals, but societal norms about beauty and virtue.

  • Imagery and Symbolism: Vivid images of the setting and characters that enhance themes of transcendence and loss.

Notable Quotes

  • “What dire Offence from am’rous Causes springs, What mighty Contests rise from trivial Things?”

  • “Not half so fix’d the Trojan could remain, While Anna begg’d and Dido rag’d in vain.”

Conclusion

  • Legacy: The Rape of the Lock remains a significant work in English literature, illustrating the conflict between reality and appearance, and the societal constructs of the early 18th century. Its playful approach to serious themes has earned it a lasting place in the literary canon.

Additional Notes by the Author

  • Definition of ‘Machinery’: Refers to the role of divine figures and supernatural beings in poetry, illustrating how trivial actions can gain importance through such interventions.