In Shelley's "Ozymandias," a statue of a great king is overlooking his city. What is the quote on the statue? How is the statue's quote ironic given the scene the statue is overlooking?
The quote on the statue in Shelley's "Ozymandias" is: "Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
To understand the irony of this quote, we need to consider the context of the scene that the statue is overlooking. In the poem, the speaker describes a vast expanse of desert with a broken statue of the once mighty king, Ozymandias. The statue is described as standing alone and in ruins, surrounded only by the empty and lifeless desert.
The irony lies in the fact that the statue's quote suggests a sense of arrogance and hubris. Ozymandias wants those who see his works to marvel at his accomplishments and feel inferior in comparison. However, the statue itself serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of power and greatness. The contrast between the grandiose words on the statue and the desolate surroundings emphasizes the eventual downfall and insignificance of even the mightiest rulers.
The juxtaposition of the once-great king's words with the decaying statue and lifeless environment creates a powerful irony, highlighting the impermanence of human achievements and the inevitable passage of time.