On My First Son MCQs & Summary

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: June 2, 2025

Summary:

“On My First Son” is a poem by Ben Jonson, written as an elegy for his son, who died at the age of seven. The poem expresses deep sorrow and regret, as Jonson struggles with the pain of losing his child. He reflects on the nature of life and death, questioning whether he should envy his son for escaping the hardships of life. The poem also explores themes of grief, love, and resignation, as Jonson ultimately tries to find solace in the belief that his son is in a better place. The poem’s tone is mournful yet philosophical, as Jonson acknowledges both his love for his son and the inevitability of death.
On My First Son
On My First Son
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1. : What is the central theme of “On My First Son”?





2. : How old was Jonson’s son when he passed away?





3. : What does Jonson refer to his son as?





4. : What is Jonson’s attitude towards death in the poem?





5. : Why does Jonson feel he should not mourn too much?





6. : What does Jonson vow at the end of the poem?





7. : What type of poem is “On My First Son”?





8. : What literary device is used when Jonson calls his son his “best piece of poetry”?





9. : What is the tone of the poem?





10. : How does Jonson justify his son’s death?





 
Question Answer
Poem Name On My First Son
Poet Ben Jonson
Year Written 1603
Type of Poem Elegy
Theme(s) Grief, Love, Loss, Acceptance
Literary Device(s) Metaphor, Apostrophe
Tone Mournful, Reflective
Main Idea A father’s sorrow for his deceased son
Significance Personal reflection on the pain of loss
Writing Style Poetic, Philosophical, Emotional
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