Feminist theory: Extension of feminism into theoretical, or philosophical grounds. Views the approach to woman’s roles and lives in many different situations. It aims to understand the nature of inequality.

Formalism: Idea of looking at the poem in it’s form. Not taking any outside sources, and just going from what the poem has to offer. You look for setting, language, character development, and imagery an so on.

My Soul Is Dark (through a formalist point of view)

The poem is about his soul. The title and the first line let you know in what state his soul is in, and that it is dark and sad. He sets the setting of a really sad person where hope is scarce and depression seems to rule. He talks about how he has no hope in his heart and the sound of a harp makes him cry. The second stanza continues this theme by letting us know his sorrow is deep. That he must weep or his heart will burst. It’s the imagery of a very sad man, who has been depressed for a very long time. And the further you get the worst he seems to be until his heart breaks at last, or yields to the song, as it says in the last lines.

Thy Days Are Done (through a Marxist point of view)

This poem seen through a Marxist point of view could be precieved as a normal hardworking man not getting what he deserves or not succeeding at accomplishing what he wants. The first stanza gives you the image of determined soldier enthusiastic about what he can accomplish and ready to do whatever it takes for him to succeed. Very proud of the fields he won and that his freedom will be restored. The second stanza continues with this determination that even though he has run into some obstacles and has fallen, or been held up, he will not allow himself to give up and his spirit is strong. And continues in the last stanza, he charges on with a strong battle cry, and if he has anything to do with it, he WILL accomplish his mission. He is very determined, very spirited, and will not allow himself to fail.

She Walks In Beauty (through a feminist point of view)

From a feminist point of view, you could say this poem is all about the outside looks and appearance of the woman. It doesn’t really talk or say much about any of her thoughts of feelings or what she has to offer emotionally or spiritually. It’s only about her beauty, and that the woman is being viewed more as an object than a person. The poem does have good things to say about her and talks about how beautiful and desirable she is. It gives you the image of a sweet, eloquent women that is happy and sweet, but a feminist might see this as weak or dependant.