Topic Summaries

This poem is about soldiers’ bravery when confronted with certain death. With a vigorous and relentless rhythm, Tennyson conveys the rapid pace of a British Light Brigade marching towards their inevitable end. He describes how 600 soldiers were ordered to advance upon an artillery unit – orders which the soldiers followed unquestioningly, as was their duty. Even when the brigade is fired upon by cannons and guns, they march onwards into “Hell” and “Death,” putting up a valiant fight and breaking through enemy lines before falling back, though they sustain heavy casualties. The poem ends with an imperative call to always remember the glorious bravery of these soldiers. The poem reflects the Victorian ideal of duty and loyalty to one’s country and commanding officers, but it also subtly critiques the mistakes that led to the charge, suggesting that blind obedience to authority can have fatal consequences. Thus, Tennyson venerates the bravery of soldiers whilst simultaneously critiquing the industry of war that sends soldiers to their deaths; he honours the people but laments the circumstances that led to their sacrifice.