The Sphinx explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Classical Mythology and Antiquity

  The poem is steeped in references to Egyptian and Greek mythology, including gods, monsters, and ancient rituals.

• Spirituality and Doubt

  The speaker contrasts the pagan sensuality of the Sphinx with the Christian crucifix, expressing spiritual conflict.

• Transience and Mortality

  The decay of Ammon's statue and the Sphinx's ancient but fading power highlight the theme of impermanence.

Characters to notice

• Sphinx

  The central figure of the poem, a silent and immortal creature addressed by the speaker.

• Antinous

  Mentioned as the young slave whose laughter the Sphinx heard from Adrian's barge.

• Ammon

  Described as the Sphinx's bedfellow, a god whose statue now lies in ruins.

• Christ

  Referenced as the 'pallid burden' on the crucifix, the only God who has died.

• Anthony

  Mentioned in the context of Cleopatra (the Egyptian) melting her union for Antony.

• Adonis

  Referenced as 'white Adon' on his catafalque, kissed by the Cyprian.

Key passages

• “A beautiful and silent Sphinx has watched me through the shifting gloom.”

  A lovely, quiet Sphinx has been observing me in the dim light.

  Introduces the Sphinx as a constant, mysterious presence in the speaker's room.

• “Only one God has ever died. Only one God has let His side be wounded by a soldier’s spear.”

  Only one God has truly died, and only one God allowed a soldier to wound His side.

  Contrasts the pagan gods with the Christian God, emphasizing Christ's unique sacrifice.

• “False Sphinx! False Sphinx! By reedy Styx old Charon, leaning on his oar, Waits for my coin. Go thou before, and leave me to my crucifix.”

  Deceptive Sphinx! Charon waits for my payment to cross the Styx. Go ahead of me, and leave me to my crucifix.

  The speaker rejects the Sphinx and turns to Christian faith, referencing the ferryman of the underworld.