Themes and Symbols in Yeats' Poetry

The video tutorial explores 'The Second Coming' by W.B. Yeats, written post-World War I. It discusses the poem's historical context, its complex themes of chaos and revelation, and its rich imagery, including the sphinx-like creature. The teacher provides an analysis of the poem's structure and encourages students to interpret its meaning personally.

What is the main focus of the poem 'The Second Coming' by W.B. Yeats?

• The joy of life

• The chaos of the modern world

• The beauty of nature

• The simplicity of rural life

Who painted the fresco in the Sistine Chapel that depicts the Second Coming?

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Raphael

• Donatello

• Michelangelo

What historical event influenced Yeats' writing of 'The Second Coming'?

• The American Civil War

• World War I

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Renaissance

In the poem, what does the falcon symbolize?

• Love and compassion

• Control and order

• Chaos and disconnection

• Peace and harmony

What creature does Yeats envision in the second stanza of the poem?

• A unicorn

• A sphinx-like creature

• A phoenix

• A dragon

What theme is emphasized through the repetition of 'surely' in the poem?

• Certainty

• Doubt

• Joy

• Fear

What does Yeats suggest about the nature of the Second Coming?

• It will be a peaceful event

• It will bring more chaos

• It is a myth

• It is a time for celebration