Final answer:
Blake's chimney sweeps symbolize social challenges of exploitation, class divide, and critique of institutions in his time.
Explanation:
William Blake's chimney sweeps are symbolic of the social challenges of his time in multiple ways:
- Exploitation: The chimney sweeps, often young children, represent the exploitation and abuse of the vulnerable in society.
- Class divide: Their plight highlights the stark class divide and the harsh conditions faced by the lower class during Blake's era.
- Criticizing institutions: Their presence symbolizes Blake's critique of societal institutions that perpetuate such injustices.
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