A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

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ISSN 2181-922X 174

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A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of

George Gordon Byron

Mirusmanova Ziyoda

1

Abstract

This research paper delves into literary exploration of Oriental po-

etics in the lyrical works of the renowned Romantic poet, George Gordon

Byron, commonly known as Lord Byron. Byron was a leading figure in the

Romantic movement and was well-known for his versatility in poetry that

ranged from lyric to epic to satirical. G.G.Byron as a romantic poet wanted

to show his inner thoughts through his rebellion heroes, in order to do this,

he used Orientalism as a main element. When undertaking a literary anal-

ysis of George Gordon Byron’s works through the lens of Oriental poetics,

various elements come into focus, such as: connotative meaning, imagery,

metaphor, poetic language, rhyme scheme and simile. Through his work,

Western and Eastern literary traditions are brought into conversation,

demonstrating how they can be combined to create intricate and nuanced

artistic expressions.

Key words:

Oriental poetics, exoticism, scenery, denotative and con-

notative meanings, themes of emotion, image-symbol, Byronic hero.

Introduction

Poem analysis typically involves the careful examination of

various literary elements. These elements include narration, setting,

characters, theme, structure, rhythm, rhyme, figurative language,

diction, tone, and mood. An analysis, or poetry explication, may also

consider the audience for which the poem is written as well as the

poem’s context. In the article “Poetry analysis” former U.S. Poet Lau-

reate Billy Collins mentions that: “Poetry analysis involves dissecting

a poem to gain a comprehensive understanding of its various com-

ponents. By examining each line individually, one can deconstruct

the poem to explore its structure, form, language usage, metrical

pattern, and underlying theme. The goal of literary analysis is to in-

terpret the poem’s significance and develop a deeper appreciation

1

Miirusmanova Ziyoda Ziyodulla qizi –

a teacher of English language. University of

science and technologies. Department of languages.

E-mail:

mirusmanovaziyoda@gmail.com

ORCID ID:

0009-0000-7285-998X

For citation:

Mirusmanova. Z. 2024. “A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of

George Gordon Byron”.

U

zbekistan: Language and Culture.

1(2):

174-184.

Uzbekistan: Language and Culture 2024/1(2)

175

for it.” In order to analyze and comprehend deeply Byron’s Oriental

lyrics, figuring out Orientalism, knowing his main reasons to be in

-

spired by eastern or oriental culture, poems and society are so im-

portant.

Main part

According to the

New World Encyclopedia

the term Oriental-

ism derives from a Latin word

oriens

meaning “east” (literally “ris-

ing sun”). Despite the fact that the history of Orientalism related to

the Middle age, it became more popular especially, at the period of

Enlightenment. In western literature the end of XVIII and the be-

ginning of XIX centuries were considered difficult period for poor

people, writers and poets. Of course the challenges and alternations

of society had a huge effect to their works. G.G.Byron was born on

January 22,1788 in London. At the age 10 he inherited he title Baron

from his uncle William. He started writing from his early ages and

the first published work was “Hours of Idleness”. In 1809 he became

a member of the Hause of Lords, from that time he was called as

Lord Byron, and may be for this reason he knew all about the poli-

tics and unfairness which were done from aristocrats to poor pop-

ulation. The problems in the society also effected to the works of

G.G.Byron. As other romantic poets he suffered exact problems and

tried to solve them in his poems. While reading his lyrics we can feel

the hard period, a rebellion romantic hero who wants to change and

improve something and, at the end terrible final. In this time G.G.By

-

ron had to travel a lot and one of his trip was to East (through the

Ottaman Empire). This was the most essential reason to create Ori-

ental tales. Byron’s engagement with the East is particularly evident

in works such as his Turkish Tales, which includes “The Giaour,” “The

Bride of Abydos,” “The Corsair,” and “The Siege of Corinth”, “Lara”.

These works were largely inspired by his travels through the Otto-

man Empire and Greece, they reflect his fascination with Oriental

landscapes, cultures, and themes. As a romantic poem Byron often

incorporated lush and exotic descriptions of Eastern landscapes and

architecture, which can be associated with the traditional Oriental

poetic emphasis on nature and setting. He painted a vivid picture

of the Orient, imbued with mystery, sensuality, and darkness, which

aligned with the Romantic ideal of the sublime—inspiring a sense of

awe and wonder mixed with danger.

Exoticism and Scenery

“The Bride of Abydos” is a romantic narration located in Tur-

A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

176

key, authored by Lord Byron. The plot centers on the illicit affection

between Selim, and Zuleika, an attractive young woman who is en-

gaged to another man. In spite of the obstructions they encounter,

Selim and Zuleika are resolute in their desire to be together and flee

to a remote island where they can reside in tranquility. Neverthe-

less, their joy is short-lived as Zuleika’s intended, Giaffir discovers

their whereabouts and seeks retribution. The narrative is replete

with vivid portrayals of the Turkish terrain and customs, as well as

themes of love, integrity, and treachery. Byron’s poetic diction and

narrative style render “The Bride of Abydos” an enduring classic of

romantic literature.

Where the flowers ever blossom, the beams ever shine;

Where the light wings of Zephyr, oppressed with perfume,

Wax faint o’er the gardens of Gul in her bloom;

Where the citron and olive are fairest of fruit,

And the voice of the nightingale never is mute;

Where the tints of the earth, and the hues of the sky,

In colour though varied, in beauty may vie,

And the purple of Ocean is deepest in dye;

Where the virgins are soft as the roses they twine,

And all, save the spirit of man, is divine –

’Tis the clime of the East – ’tis the land of the Sun …

(Canto I)

This is a beginning of the Canto I and while reading the read-

er can feel a sense of Turkish culture and nature with ease. From

the beginning the writer describes East with beautiful and delicate

words and expressions. The description of the garden with

Gul

(in

East it is a rose which reflects the beauty) and nightingale which is a

symbol of beloved man. Reading attentively helps us to understand

its denotative and connotative meaning. Here denotative meaning

is an attractive sights of Turkish area, its unforgettable smell with

Zephyr (a gentle breeze), fruits citron and olive (mostly eaten in Tur-

key), eastern garden where every part covered with flowers espe

-

cially with roses and the tune of nightingale. All this factors make

readers feel as if they are in East. On the other hand, awe can imagine

there is a romantic sphere. There is a Turkish girl (Gul) in a beauti-

ful nature and her beloved man (nightingale) “

And the voice of the

nightingale never is mute

;” means his love is forever. The sky and the

ocean are the proof of his pure love.

The Persian Atar-gul’s perfume,

Ziyoda MIRUSMANOVA

177

And sprinkled all its odours o’er

The pictured roof and marble floor –

The drops, that through his glittering vest

The playful girl’s appeal address.

(Canto I, 10)

This exemplifies an authentic portrayal of Eastern habitation,

as depicted by the poet through the olfactory imagery of Atar-gul,

the ornately decorated roofs, and the marble floors, which served

as emblematic of Eastern cultural traditions. Moreover, this serves

as evidence of Lord Byron’s thorough exploration of Eastern culture.

Characters and emotions

In “The Bride of Abydos,” the characters are not only vessels

for the narrative, but they also represent thematic and symbolic

elements that enrich the story. Let’s delve deeper into the analysis

of the characters to better understand their roles and significance

in the narrative.

Giaffir and Zuleika stand as stark embodiments

of contrasting emotions and themes within the narrative. Giaffir’s

character symbolizes death and destruction, portraying a force that

threatens the harmony and love represented by Zuleika. This dual-

ity of characters creates a compelling dynamic that drives the con-

flict within the story. Zuleika, on the other hand, represents love and

embodies the emotional core of the narrative. Her character serves

as a beacon of light amidst the darkness, showcasing the enduring

power of love even in the face of adversity. Selim and Haroun, the

other central characters, navigate a balance between love and death,

each emdiving different facets of this emotional spectrum. Selim’s

evolution from a silent lover to a character aligned with the forces

of death and destruction reflects a transformation in his character,

highlighting the complexities of human nature and the capacity for

change. His journey serves as a reflection of the internal struggles

and conflicts that propel the narrative forward. Haroun, as a eunuch

who holds a key role, presents an enigmatic and pivotal figure with

-

in the story. His status as neither a lover nor a fighter positions him

as a neutral entity, yet his significance lies in the knowledge and in

-

fluence he holds, symbolizing the underlying power dynamics and

complexities within the narrative. The interactions and dynamics

between these characters serve to underscore overarching themes

such as the interplay between love and destruction, internal conflict,

and the complexity of human emotions. Through their actions and

relationships, the characters in “The Bride of Abydos” contribute to

A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

178

the exploration of these themes, providing depth and nuance to the

narrative. Furthermore, the way in which these characters evolve

and interact with one another shapes the overall trajectory of the

story, driving the plot forward while offering insights into the human

condition. By delving into their motivations, conflicts, and transfor

-

mations, readers gain a deeper understanding of the thematic layers

present in the narrative, as well as the emotional and psychological

aspects that drive the characters’ actions. The characters in “The

Bride of Abydos” serve as more than mere conduits for the story;

they encapsulate thematic and symbolic significance, emdiving es

-

sential elements of emotion, conflict, and human nature. Their inter

-

actions and individual journeys enrich the narrative, contributing to

a multidimensional exploration of love, conflict, and the complexi

-

ties of the human experience. Collectively, the characters’ internal

struggles and conflicts serve to illuminate the profound emotion

-

al landscapes that underpin the narrative, offering a rich tapestry

of human experiences and introspection. These inner battles add

depth and dimension to the characters, underscoring the universal

themes of love, conflict, and the human condition. The exploration of

internal struggles and conflicts within the characters in “The Bride

of Abydos” not only deepens the narrative but also invites readers to

contemplate the complexities of human emotions and the nuanced

interplay of internal strife and external pressures. By delving into

the internal landscapes of the characters, the story transcends mere

external conflicts, delving into the profound depths of human expe

-

rience and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

The Use of Oriental Motifs:

Byron’s lyrics often feature Oriental motifs such as gardens,

harems, battles, and sea voyages—a reflection of Oriental poetry

which commonly uses nature and voyage as metaphors for inner

journeys and emotional states.

“Let the chamber be clear′d.” - The train disappear′d -

“Now call me the chief of the Haram guard.”

With Giaffir is none but his only son,

And the Nubian awaiting the sire′s award.

One of the central oriental symbols in “The Bride of Abydos”

is the motif of the

Haram

, which serves as a potent emblem of the

exotic and mysterious East. The harem, traditionally associated

with the Islamic world, represents a secluded and enigmatic space

that sparks the imagination and curiosity of Western audiences. By-

ron skillfully utilizes the haram as a symbol of female captivity and

Ziyoda MIRUSMANOVA

179

the Eastern mystique, underscoring the allure and enigma of the

Orient as perceived by the Western gaze. Turkish scientist Seniha

GÜLDEREN

mentioned that Haram as

the separate part of a Mus-

lim household reserved for wives, concubines, and female servants

in her article. Furthermore, the portrayal of luxurious and opulent

palaces, adorned with silks, jewels, and intricate designs, serves as

a vivid oriental symbol that accentuates the allure of the Eastern

world. Byron’s evocative descriptions of Eastern architecture and in-

terior decor evoke a sense of grandeur and exotic beauty, presenting

the Orient as a realm of lavish splendor and aesthetic richness. The

figure of the veiled woman also emerges as a powerful oriental sym

-

bol in the poem, encapsulating notions of femininity, mystery, and

cultural difference. The veil, a traditional garment in many Eastern

cultures, becomes a potent symbol of the hidden and the enigmatic,

casting a shroud of intrigue and allure over the women of the Orient.

Through the veil, Byron evokes the mystery and exoticism associat-

ed with the Eastern female persona, imbuing the narrative with an

aura of otherness and cultural fascination. Moreover, the evocation

of Eastern landscapes, such as deserts, bazaars, and minarets, serves

as a compelling oriental symbol that enriches the narrative with a

sense of place and cultural distinctiveness. Byron’s vivid portrayal

of the Eastern milieu immerses readers in a world of stark deserts,

bustling marketplaces, and towering minarets, cultivating an impres-

sion of the Orient as a realm of both harsh beauty and vibrant ener-

gy. Byron’s use of oriental symbols in “The Bride of Abydos” serves to

infuse the narrative with an aura of exoticism, mystery, and cultural

fascination, capturing the allure and enigma of the Eastern world as

perceived through the lens of Western romanticism. Through the

rich tapestry of oriental motifs and imagery, Byron paints a vivid

portrait of the East as a realm of untold beauty, intrigue, and allure,

inviting readers to embark on an evocative journey through the cul-

tural and geographical landscapes of the Orient.

“The Corsair”

“The Corsair” is a captivating and influential work by the re

-

nowned poet Lord Byron. Published in 1814, this narrative poem

delves into themes of honor, love, and the conflict between societal

expectations and individual freedom. The work follows the story of

Conrad, a corsair (pirate), and his tumultuous love for the beauti-

ful Medora. Set against the backdrop of the exotic and treacherous

Mediterranean seas, “The Corsair” captivates readers with its vivid

A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

180

imagery, evocative language, and compelling exploration of human

emotions and the human condition. One of the central themes in

“The Corsair” is the tension between individual agency and socie-

tal conventions. Conrad, the charismatic and enigmatic corsair, em-

bodies this conflict as he grapples with his identity as an outsider

to mainstream society while navigating his own moral code. Byron

explores the notion of rebellion against societal norms and the pur-

suit of personal freedom in the face of social constraints, offering a

thought-provoking examination of the human desire for autonomy

and the consequences of defying established norms.

The theme of love, particularly the passionate and forbidden

love between Conrad and Medora, serves as a poignant focal point in

the narrative. Their intense and tumultuous romance unfolds against

a backdrop of danger and betrayal, highlighting the complexities of

human emotions and the profound impact of love on the human psy-

che. Byron masterfully delves into the intricacies of love, exploring

its capacity to both uplift and devastate, ultimately painting a vivid

and heart-wrenching portrayal of the power of love in the face of

adversity.

Additionally, “The Corsair” delves into the theme of hon-

or and the moral implications of Conrad’s actions as a corsair. The

poem navigates the complexities of morality, duty, and the pursuit of

justice, prompting readers to contemplate the blurred lines between

heroism and villainy. Conrad’s moral ambiguity and his internal con-

flicts offer a compelling exploration of the human capacity for both

good and evil, underscoring the multifaceted nature of human na-

ture and the intricacies of moral decision-making.

“A sail! – a sail!”- a promised prize to Hope!

Her nation – flag – how speaks the telescope?

No prize, alas! but yet a welcome sail:

The blood-red signal glitters in the gale.

Yes - she is ours - a home-returning bark -

Blow fair, thou breeze! – she anchors ere the dark.

Byron’s evocative language and rich imagery transport read-

ers to the dangerous and alluring world of the Mediterranean seas,

infusing the narrative with a sense of adventure and intrigue. The

vivid portrayal of the landscape, from the perilous shores to the

open sea, serves as a powerful backdrop for the characters’ emotion-

al journeys, emphasizing the interconnectedness of external land-

scapes and internal states of being.

“The Corsair” also serves as a reflection on the consequenc

-

Ziyoda MIRUSMANOVA

181

es of pride, betrayal, and the pursuit of power, offering a cautionary

exploration of human frailty and the potential for downfall. Through

the characters’ actions and choices, Byron weaves a narrative that

delves into the complexities of human motivations and the enduring

impact of pride and ambition on individual fates.

In addition to its thematic depth, “The Corsair” is celebrated

for its lyrical and emotive language, which showcases Byron’s mas-

tery of poetic expression. The poem’s stirring verses and evocative

imagery contribute to its enduring appeal, resonating with readers

through its exploration of human emotion, moral dilemmas, and the

timeless pursuit of freedom and love.

“The Corsair” is a poignant and thought-provoking work that

captures the essence of human experience through its exploration

of love, honor, societal constraints, and the complexities of human

nature. Byron’s lyrical prowess and thematic depth infuse the narra-

tive with a timeless resonance, inviting readers to contemplate the

enduring themes and emotions that define the human condition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a literary analysis of Byron’s work with a focus

on Oriental classical poetics can reveal the deep influence of Eastern

aesthetics on his lyrics. Byron’s adoption and adaptation of Oriental

themes and settings were part of a larger trend of Orientalism within

Romantic literature, reflecting both the fascination and the ambiva

-

lence that European writers felt toward the cultures of the East. His

work opens up a dialogue between Western and Eastern literary tra-

ditions, showing how they can be intertwined to produce rich and

complex artistic expressions.

Lord Byron’s exploration of Eastern culture, as reflected in

his works, is a subject of much discussion among scholars. While

his poetic depictions offer rich insights into the Eastern world, it is

important to acknowledge that they are filtered through the lens of

a Western observer. Given that women’s roles were not rebellious

throughout the Ottoman Empire era he wrote about in “The Bride of

Abydos,” They were obligated to obey their mahrams (father, brother,

or husband) because to religious regulations. But Lord Byron wished

to interpret the western women who were a part of his society, and

he did it with the aid of Zulikha. women who were attempting to

secure their rights and freedom via struggle. Like many Western

writers of his time, Byron was influenced by the Orientalist trends

prevalent in European art and literature, which shaped his portrayal

A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

182

of the East. Therefore, while his engagement with Eastern culture is

significant, it is essential to approach it with critical consideration of

the cultural and historical context in which it was written.

The oriental symbols in “The Bride of Abydos” and “The Cor-

sair” contribute to the poem’s rich tapestry of imagery and themes,

infusing the narrative with a sense of cultural fascination, exotic al-

lure, and enigmatic beauty. Byron’s evocative portrayal of the Orient

as a realm of opulence, mystery, and feminine allure serves to en-

hance the narrative and evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment,

capturing the essence of the Western romantic fascination with the

exotic East.

References

Bayron

saylanma

. 1974. Toshkent: G‘ofur G‘ulom nomidagi adabiyot va

san’at nashiryoti.

For an examination of the harem in Byron’s writing, see Malcolm Kelsall,

‘Byron and the Women of the Harem,’ in Rereading Byron:

Essays Selected from Hofstra University’s Byron Bicentenni-

al Conference, ed. by Alice Levine and Robert N. Keane (New

York: Garland, 1993), pp. 165-73.

Jonathan David Gross. 2001. Byron: The Erotic Liberal (Lanham: Rowman

& Littlefield) esp. pp. 55-78.

LORD BYRON. 1813. THE BRIDE OF ABYDOS. LONDON: Printed by T. Da-

vison, Whitefriars, FOR JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE-STREET.

Mole, T 2008, The Bride of Abydos: The Regime of Visibility and the Possi-

bility of Resistance. in B Beatty, T Howe & CE Robinson (eds),

Liberty and Poetic Licence: New Essays on Byron. Liverpool

University Press.

Parda Qurbonov. 2019. Bayron ijodida sharq va sharqona motivlar tavsifi.

Samarqand. New World Encyclopedia. https://www.newworl-

dencyclopedia.org/entry/Orientalism

Abdulla, U. O. (2021). GREAT TEXTBOOK OR THE CREATION OF A

SCHOLARLY LITERARY CRITIC.

Conferencea

, 83-94.

HAMROYEVA, O. (2024). “ NAVOIYNING FORSIY SHOIRLIGʻI...”

XUSUSIDA.

Alisher Navo’i and 21 st century

,

1

(1).

Jalolovna, H. O. CORRELATION BETWEEN THE SCIENCE OF RHYME AND

THE SCIENCE OF BADE’.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS OF BUKHARA

STATE UNIVERSITY

,

181

.

Ziyoda MIRUSMANOVA

183

Jorj Gordon Bayron Sharqona lirikasining

adabiy tahlili

Mirusmanova Ziyoda

1

Abstrakt

Ushbu tadqiqot ishi taniqli romantik shoir Jorj Gordon Bayronning,

odatda Lord Bayron nomi bilan tanilgan, lirik asarlarida Sharq poetikasi-

ni adabiy o’rganishga bag’ishlangan. Bayron romantik harakatning etakchi

vakili edi va lirikadan dostongacha satiragacha bo’lgan she’riyatdagi ko’p

qirraliligi bilan mashhur edi. G. G. Bayron romantik shoir sifatida o’zining

ichki fikrlarini isyonkor qahramonlari orqali ko’rsatmoqchi bo‘ladi, buning

uchun u sharqonalikdan asosiy element sifatida foydalangan. Jorj Gordon

Bayron asarlarini Sharq poetikasi obyekti orqali adabiy tahlil qilishda turli

xil elementlar e’tiborga olinadi, masalan: konnotativ ma’no, tasvir, meta-

fora, she’riy til, qofiya sxemasi va o’xshatish. Uning ijodi G‘arb va Sharq

adabiy an’analari e’tiborga olib, ularni qanday qilib birlashtirib, murakkab

va nozik badiiy ifodalarni yaratish mumkinligini namoyish etadi.

Kalit so’zlar:

Sharq poetikasi, ekzotizm, manzara, denotativ va

konnotativ ma’nolar, hissiyot mavzulari, obraz-ramz, Bayronik qahramon.

Adabiyotlar

Bayron

saylanma

. 1974. Toshkent: G‘ofur G‘ulom nomidagi adabiyot va

san’at nashiryoti.

For an examination of the harem in Byron’s writing, see Malcolm Kelsall,

‘Byron and the Women of the Harem,’ in Rereading Byron:

Essays Selected from Hofstra University’s Byron Bicentenni-

al Conference, ed. by Alice Levine and Robert N. Keane (New

York: Garland, 1993), pp. 165-73.

Jonathan David Gross. 2001. Byron: The Erotic Liberal (Lanham: Rowman

& Littlefield, ) esp. pp. 55-78.

LORD BYRON. 1813. THE BRIDE OF ABYDOS. LONDON: Printed by T. Da-

vison, Whitefriars, FOR JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE-STREET.

Mole, T 2008, The Bride of Abydos: The Regime of Visibility and the Possi-

bility of Resistance. in B Beatty, T Howe & CE Robinson (eds),

Liberty and Poetic Licence: New Essays on Byron. Liverpool

University Press. New World Encyclopedia. https://www.

newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Orientalism

1

Mirusmanova Ziyoda Ziyodulla qizi

– Fan va Texnologiyalar universiteti, Tillar

kafedrasi o‘qituvchisi.

E-pochta:

mirusmanovaziyoda@gmail.com

ORCID ID

: 0009-0000-7285-998X

Iqtibos uchun:

Mirusmanova. Z. 2024. “Jorj Gordon Bayron Sharqona lirikasining

adabiy tahlili”.

O‘zbekiston: til va madaniyat. 1(2):

174-184.

A literary analysis of the Oriental lyrics of George Gordon Byron

184

Parda Qurbonov. 2019. Bayron ijodida sharq va sharqona motivlar tavsifi.

Samarqand.

Abdulla, U. O. (2021). GREAT TEXTBOOK OR THE CREATION OF A

SCHOLARLY LITERARY CRITIC.

Conferencea

, 83-94.

HAMROYEVA, O. (2024). “ NAVOIYNING FORSIY SHOIRLIGʻI...”

XUSUSIDA.

Alisher Navo’i and 21 st century

,

1

(1).

Jalolovna, H. O. CORRELATION BETWEEN THE SCIENCE OF RHYME AND

THE SCIENCE OF BADE’.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS OF BUKHARA

STATE UNIVERSITY

,

181

.

Ziyoda MIRUSMANOVA