# Written at the Lyceum Theatre explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Oscar Wilde.

## What happens

The chapter is a poetic tribute to Ellen Terry, celebrating her performances in various roles such as Portia, Queen Henrietta Maria, and Camma. It reflects on her beauty, wisdom, and the transformative power of her acting, drawing on classical and historical allusions.

## Themes in this chapter

### Beauty and Aesthetics

The poem praises Ellen Terry's physical beauty and the aesthetic perfection of her performances, comparing her to art and classical figures.

### Classical Mythology and Antiquity

References to Grecian urns, Artemis, and the serpent of old Nile evoke classical and mythological themes.

### Love and Loss

The speaker offers his heart to Portia and expresses a longing that blends admiration with a sense of personal sacrifice.

## Character check-ins

### Ellen Terry

Addressed as Portia, Queen Henrietta Maria, and Camma; celebrated for her performances and beauty.

### Bassanio

Referenced as bold in risking all on the lead casket.

### Queen Henrietta Maria

Portrayed as waiting in a tent for victory, embodying loyalty and passion.

### Anthony

Mentioned in the context of 'me thine Anthony' in the Camma section.

## Key lines

> I marvel not Bassanio was so bold To peril all he had upon the lead

I am not surprised that Bassanio risked everything on the lead casket.

_Refers to the casket scene in The Merchant of Venice._

> O Portia! take my heart: it is thy due: I think I will not quarrel with the Bond.

Portia, accept my heart as your rightful due; I will not dispute the bond.

_The speaker offers his heart to Portia, referencing the bond in the play._

> As one who poring on a Grecian urn Scans the fair shapes some Attic hand hath made

Like someone studying a Greek urn and admiring the beautiful figures crafted by an Athenian artist.

_Alludes to Keats' 'Ode on a Grecian Urn' and classical art._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_18_se/chapters/written-at-the-lyceum-theatre
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_18_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_18_se/chapters