Summary:
“The Sphinx” is a poem by Oscar Wilde, first published in 1894. This long and richly descriptive poem explores themes of mythology, exoticism, decadence, and existential questioning. Wilde’s speaker engages in a deep, almost hypnotic contemplation of the Sphinx, a mythical creature from Egyptian and Greek traditions, as it sits in his room.
The poem is deeply symbolic, contrasting ancient myths and religious beliefs with the modern world’s decay. The Sphinx, representing mystery, power, and sensuality, becomes a figure through which the speaker reflects on history, desire, and mortality. The poem contains luxurious and exotic imagery, with references to Egyptian gods, Greek legends, and Eastern mysticism.
In the end, the Sphinx remains enigmatic, untouched by time, while the speaker remains a mere mortal, lost in his thoughts. The poem reflects Wilde’s fascination with aesthetic beauty, mythology, and the fleeting nature of human existence.
MCQs:
- Who wrote The Sphinx?
A) William Blake
B) Oscar Wilde
C) T.S. Eliot
D) John Keats
Answer: B) Oscar Wilde - When was The Sphinx first published?
A) 1881
B) 1891
C) 1894
D) 1900
Answer: C) 1894 - What is the central figure in the poem?
A) A mermaid
B) A Sphinx
C) A knight
D) A Greek god
Answer: B) A Sphinx
The Sphinx - What does the Sphinx symbolize in the poem?
A) The power of science
B) Mystery, sensuality, and the passage of time
C) The strength of human civilization
D) The rise of Christianity
Answer: B) Mystery, sensuality, and the passage of time - Which literary movement does The Sphinx belong to?
A) Romanticism
B) Modernism
C) Aestheticism & Decadence
D) Realism
Answer: C) Aestheticism & Decadence - What themes are explored in the poem?
A) War and patriotism
B) Religion vs. mythology, time vs. eternity, and sensuality vs. morality
C) Family and love
D) Political revolution
Answer: B) Religion vs. mythology, time vs. eternity, and sensuality vs. morality - Which cultures and mythologies are referenced in The Sphinx?
A) Roman and Viking
B) Egyptian and Greek
C) Native American and Celtic
D) Chinese and Japanese
Answer: B) Egyptian and Greek - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Humorous and lighthearted
B) Dark, mysterious, and exotic
C) Realistic and straightforward
D) Optimistic and cheerful
Answer: B) Dark, mysterious, and exotic - How does the speaker perceive the Sphinx?
A) As a wise old teacher
B) As an emotionless statue
C) As a mystical, powerful, and timeless entity
D) As a dangerous enemy
Answer: C) As a mystical, powerful, and timeless entity - Which of the following best describes The Sphinx‘s writing style?
A) Simple and direct
B) Ornate, elaborate, and filled with rich imagery
C) Minimalistic and plain
D) Short and fragmented
Answer: B) Ornate, elaborate, and filled with rich imagery
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | The Sphinx |
| Poet | Oscar Wilde |
| Year Published | 1894 |
| Main Themes | Mythology, Time vs. Eternity, Sensuality vs. Morality, Religion vs. Paganism |
| Symbolism | The Sphinx as a timeless, mysterious entity |
| Literary Movement | Aestheticism & Decadence |
| Notable Imagery | Egyptian and Greek mythology, exotic landscapes, mystical creatures |