The Rape Of The Lock Analysis

Essay Three: The Rape of the Lock Alexander Pope wrote this humorous poem as a way to mend a broken family relationship. He originally wrote this poem in two cantos, which some considered to be perfect. However, Pope felt like there should be more to the story, therefore he added the “machinery” and expanded the poem to five cantos. The Rape of the Lock contains literary elements of satire, epic poetry, juxtaposition, and chiasmus in order to formulate a mock epic. In the beginning of canto one, Pope writes his invocation to his dear friend, John Caryll, who inspired him to write this peom. He also acknowledges Bilenda, who is representing Arabella in this poem. There is a reoccurring theme throughout Pope’s entire humorous poem, which is
Zephyretta’s duty is to take care of the fan; Brillante is in charge of Belinda’s earrings; Momentilla’s responsibility is to look after the watch; Crispissa must tend to Belinda’s hair; and Ariel must guard Belinda’s dog, Shock. In addition, Ariel is concerned that Belinda may “break Diana’s law” (2.105), which means that she may lose her virginity. Therefore, Ariel takes precaution and assigns fifty Sylphs to watch her dress. Pope also refers to Greek mythology when he writes about the punishments for the Sylphs. One form of punishment is to be placed in “the giddy motion of the whirling mill” (2.134), which refers to Ixion, who was punished by being on a turning wheel for eternity.
The opening scene in canto three is at the Hampton Court. The party consists of gossip, singing, and laughing. At noon, Belinda challenges the Baron and another young man to a game of ombre. Pope transforms the card game into a major battle, trying to keep the theme of the mock epic in tact. Pope brings the cards to life by personification, and giving the cards of greater importance a heroic name, like “Matadores” (3.46). Belinda wins the card game, and boasts about her