Analysing how Owen presents the realities of war in 'Dulce et Decorum Est'
I can analyse how Owen uses language, form and structure to present the brutal reality of war.
Analysing how Owen presents the realities of war in 'Dulce et Decorum Est'
I can analyse how Owen uses language, form and structure to present the brutal reality of war.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Owen uses graphic imagery to portray the brutal reality of war.
- Owen shows the vulnerability of the men in the beginning of the poem, contradicting the public perception of soldiers.
- Owen uses figurative language to convey a vivid account of the gas attack.
- Owen switches tense throughout the poem - perhaps to represent his experiences with PTSD.
- The inclusion of three tenses arguably illustrates the impact that war has had on Owen’s past, present and future.
Keywords
Vulnerable - able to be harmed either physically or emotionally.
Desensitised - less sensitive or reactive to something.
Imagery - words used to create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.
Gruelling - extremely challenging and demanding.
PTSD - a mental illness caused by trauma, in which the patient may suffer flashbacks, hallucinations, depression and substance abuse.
Common misconception
Students sometimes fail to recognise that the tense shifts as the poem progresses.
Owen includes three tenses in his poem, perhaps to illustrate that the impact of war has, is and will be felt in his past, present and future.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing how Owen presents the realities of war in 'Dulce et Decorum Est', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing how Owen presents the realities of war in 'Dulce et Decorum Est', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the Eduqas poetry anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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