Alfred Tennyson Tennyson
Dora
"Dora" by Alfred Tennyson is a narrative poem written during the late 19th century. This work explores themes of love, duty, and familial relationships, focusing on the dynamics between characters within a rural setting. The poem delves into the complexities of arranged marriages and the consequences of personal choices against societal expectations. The story follows Dora, who lives with her uncle Allan and his son, William. Allan has long desired a marriage between William and Dora, but William dismisses this idea and eventually marries another woman, Mary. Following William’s untimely death due to hardship, Dora feels guilty for not supporting him while he was alive. She attempts to connect with William’s child to gain the approval of her uncle but faces rejection instead. Yet, through tragedy and reconciliation, the family ultimately comes together, highlighting the inherent themes of forgiveness and the enduring nature of love, with Dora remaining unmarried for the rest of her life.