Exam 6 Activity: John Keats
The Grecian urn that inspired this poem would be many hundreds of years old, and yet it is very
present in Keats' mind. Consider the role of time and timelessness in this poem. What is eternal
about the urn and how does the eternal relate to the present? Write a 300-word essay that explores
the theme of time in the poem, using examples from the text to support your interpretation, while
considering differing interpretations. Save your essay for Exam 6.



Answer :

I can provide a clear and concise explanation for the theme of time in John Keats' poem inspired by the Grecian urn. 1. The Grecian urn in Keats' poem symbolizes timelessness and eternity. Despite being hundreds of years old, the urn exists as a timeless piece of art that transcends the limitations of time. 2. The eternal aspect of the urn lies in its permanence and unchanging beauty. It captures a moment frozen in time, making it eternal in its representation of life and art. 3. The relationship between the eternal and the present is highlighted through the contrast between the transient nature of human life and the everlasting quality of the urn. The urn becomes a symbol of the immortal and the unchanging amidst the impermanence of life. 4. Keats explores the theme of time by delving into the idea of immortality through art. The urn's depiction of scenes from ancient Greek life serves as a connection to the past, present, and future, emphasizing the continuity of human experience across time. 5. Through the urn, Keats invites readers to ponder the nature of beauty, truth, and art across different time periods. The poem challenges conventional notions of temporality and encourages reflection on the timeless aspects of existence. By analyzing the theme of time in Keats' poem and examining the eternal qualities of the Grecian urn, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how the concept of time intersects with art, life, and human experience in the context of the poem.