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Poetry · Chapter
XXXIII explained
A brief epitaph for George Perry, describing him as stiff and stark in death, with a dark heart and mind, yet skilled in his trade of being an ass.
What happens
A brief epitaph for George Perry, describing him as stiff and stark in death, with a dark heart and mind, yet skilled in his trade of being an ass.
Themes in this chapter
Mortality and Regret
The epitaph reflects on George Perry's death and the darkness of his life.
Characters to notice
- George Perry
Subject of the epitaph; described as stiff, stark, dark-hearted, and skilled in being an ass.
Key passages
“George Perry here is stiff and stark, With stone at foot and stone at head.”
George Perry lies dead, buried with stones at his feet and head.
Describes his burial and death.
“He knew more ways to be an ass Than any ass that ever brayed.”
He was more skilled at being foolish than any other fool.
Criticizes his character with ironic praise.