Summary:
“Hymn to Diana” by Ben Jonson is a tribute to Diana, the Roman goddess of the moon, hunting, and chastity. The poem celebrates her purity, strength, and dominion over nature. Jonson portrays Diana as a divine and powerful figure who inspires devotion and represents independence and virtue. The poem reflects the admiration of classical deities common in Renaissance literature, emphasizing themes of purity, protection, and reverence for the divine. Through vivid imagery and rhythmic praise, Jonson highlights Diana’s role as a celestial and untouchable figure, embodying both beauty and strength.
MCQs:
- Who is the goddess praised in Hymn to Diana?
A) Venus
B) Athena
C) Diana
D) Juno
Answer: C) Diana - What is Diana the goddess of?
A) Love and beauty
B) War and wisdom
C) The moon, hunting, and chastity
D) The sea and storms
Answer: C) The moon, hunting, and chastity - What is the primary theme of the poem?
A) The power of love
B) The virtues of purity and strength
C) The dangers of war
D) The decline of mythology
Answer: B) The virtues of purity and strength
Hymn to Diana - Which literary period does Hymn to Diana belong to?
A) Victorian
B) Renaissance
C) Romantic
D) Modernist
Answer: B) Renaissance - What type of poem is Hymn to Diana?
A) Sonnet
B) Elegy
C) Hymn
D) Epic
Answer: C) Hymn - How is Diana portrayed in the poem?
A) As a fierce warrior seeking revenge
B) As a divine and untouchable goddess
C) As a mortal woman longing for love
D) As a ruler of the underworld
Answer: B) As a divine and untouchable goddess - What literary device is frequently used in the poem?
A) Metaphor
B) Alliteration
C) Hyperbole
D) Simile
Answer: A) Metaphor - What does Diana symbolize in the poem?
A) Love and desire
B) Power and corruption
C) Purity and independence
D) Chaos and destruction
Answer: C) Purity and independence - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Worshipful and reverent
B) Satirical and mocking
C) Sad and melancholic
D) Playful and humorous
Answer: A) Worshipful and reverent - What aspect of Renaissance literature is reflected in the poem?
A) The rejection of mythology
B) The revival of classical themes
C) The focus on industrialization
D) The critique of monarchy
Answer: B) The revival of classical themes
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | Hymn to Diana |
| Poet | Ben Jonson |
| Type of Poem | Hymn, Mythological Tribute |
| Main Theme(s) | Purity, Strength, Divine Power |
| Tone | Reverent, Worshipful |
| Literary Devices Used | Metaphor, Imagery, Personification |
| Goddess Praised | Diana (Roman Goddess of the Moon & Hunting) |
| Historical Context | Renaissance admiration for classical mythology |
| Writing Style | Poetic, Rhythmic, Devotional |
| Key Message | Diana represents purity, independence, and celestial power |