Analysing the poem 'The Soldier' | Exit Quiz | Oak National Academy

Match the keywords to their definitions.

• patriotism

• showing a devotion to, and love for one’s country

• nurturing

• extremely perfect and/or picturesque

• idyllic

• more important/powerful/valuable than something else

• superior

• to take care of and protect something or someone

Answer explanation

These are useful keywords when exploring Brooke's 'The Soldier'.

In 'The Soldier', Brooke uses the ___ form perhaps to reflect his love for, and devotion to England.

Answer explanation

Brooke subverts the conventions of traditional sonnets, perhaps to suggest that there’s something special about the love between England and the soldier.

What is the rhyme scheme of the poem 'The Soldier?

• ABAB

• ABBA

• AABB

Answer explanation

The regular ABAB rhyme scheme may give a sense of predictability and comfort in the poem.

In the poem 'The Soldier' England is presented as a __________ figure.

• father

• mother

• parental

Answer explanation

In the poem, Brooke personifies England, presenting her as a mother-figure who has “borne, shaped and made” him into the person he is. Brooke likens England’s love to that of a mother for her son.

Which quotation from 'The Soldier' shows Brooke feels he embodies England and it's a part of him?

• "That is for ever England."

• "In that rich earth"

• "Her sights and sounds"

Answer explanation

Brooke uses the phrase “for ever England” shows us that England is a part of him, both physically and spiritually. This shows the profound influence that England has had on the person he has become.

Complete the quotation from the final line of 'The Soldier': "In hearts at peace, under an English ___."

Answer explanation

Brooke returns to the final image of an “English heaven” at the end to leave the reader with lasting hope, and to give them peace and comfort at the thought of the soldier dying.