The Lady of Shalott facts for kids
The Lady of Shalott is a famous poem by the English poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson. He lived a long time ago, from 1809 to 1892. This poem, like some of his other early works such as "Sir Lancelot and Queen Guinevere," tells a story from the Arthurian legends. These legends are old tales about King Arthur, his knights, and magic, based on medieval stories.
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What is "The Lady of Shalott" About?
This poem tells the sad story of a young woman known as the Lady of Shalott. She lives alone in a tower on an island called Shalott. This island is located in a river that flows down to Camelot, King Arthur's famous castle.
Why Can't She Look Outside?
The Lady of Shalott is under a mysterious curse. She is not allowed to look directly out of her window at the world. If she does, something bad will happen to her. Instead, she sees the world through a large mirror. This mirror reflects everything happening outside, like the farmers working and the knights riding by.
How Does She Spend Her Days?
The Lady of Shalott spends her days weaving a beautiful tapestry. She weaves the scenes she sees reflected in her mirror. She is very dedicated to her weaving and never stops, always watching the world through the reflection.
Who is Sir Lancelot?
One day, the Lady sees the brave and handsome Sir Lancelot in her mirror. He is one of King Arthur's most famous knights. He rides by, shining in his armor, and sings loudly. The sight of him is so captivating that the Lady of Shalott forgets her curse.
What Happens When She Looks?
She turns away from her mirror and looks directly out of the window towards Camelot. At that very moment, the mirror cracks from side to side. Her weaving flies away, and the curse immediately falls upon her. She knows her doom has arrived.
What Does the Lady Do Next?
Knowing her fate, the Lady of Shalott finds a small boat. She writes her name on the front of it. She lies down in the boat and lets the river carry her downstream towards Camelot.
Her Journey to Camelot
As the boat floats down the river, the Lady of Shalott sings a sad song. Her song slowly fades as she gets closer to Camelot. By the time her boat reaches the castle, she has died.
How Do People React in Camelot?
The people of Camelot, including King Arthur and his knights, come out to see the mysterious boat. They read her name on the boat and wonder who she was. Sir Lancelot looks at her and says, "She has a lovely face, and God in His mercy lend her grace."
Why is This Poem Important?
Tennyson's poem is very popular and has inspired many artists. It explores themes like isolation, the power of art, and the conflict between an artist's inner world and the outside world. It also shows the tragic consequences of breaking a magical rule.
Images for kids
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The Lady of Shalott by John Atkinson Grimshaw (c. 1875)
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The Lady of Shalott by William Maw Egley (1858)
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The Lady of Shalott by Walter Crane (1862)
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William Holman Hunt's The Lady of Shalott, c. 1888-1905
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The Lady of Shalott by John William Waterhouse, 1888
See also
In Spanish: La dama de Shalott para niños
