Lines Written During a Period of Insanity MCQs and Summary

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: June 10, 2025

Summary:

“Lines Written During a Period of Insanity” is a deeply personal poem by William Cowper, reflecting his struggles with mental illness, depression, and despair. The poem offers an intense insight into Cowper’s psychological suffering and feelings of spiritual torment.

  • The poet describes his inner turmoil and hopelessness, emphasizing the darkness that has overtaken his mind.
  • He expresses a loss of faith and a feeling of abandonment by God, despite his deep religious beliefs.
  • The poem captures his sense of isolation, suffering, and self-condemnation, as he sees himself as beyond salvation.
  • Cowper uses powerful imagery and raw emotion to depict the anguish of a person trapped in mental and emotional despair.
  • The poem is a poignant representation of mental illness in the 18th century, showing how deeply it affected personal faith and self-worth.
Lines Written During a Period of Insanity
Lines Written During a Period of Insanity
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1. : Who is the poet of Lines Written During a Period of Insanity?



2. : What is the main theme of the poem?



3. : Which emotion dominates the poem?



4. : What does Cowper struggle with in the poem?



5. : Which literary device is most prominent in the poem?



6. : What does Cowper believe about his relationship with God in this poem?



7. : Which mental condition influenced the writing of this poem?



8. : What does the poem reveal about 18th-century views on mental health?



9. : What kind of imagery does Cowper use in the poem?



10. : How does the poem end?



 

Question Answer
Poem Name Lines Written During a Period of Insanity
Poet William Cowper
Main Theme Mental illness, despair, religious doubt
Dominant Emotion Hopelessness and spiritual turmoil
Literary Devices Used Imagery, symbolism, emotional intensity
Poetic Tone Dark, melancholic, introspective
Historical Context Reflects 18th-century struggles with mental health and faith
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