(a) Reference : These lines are from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words while describing the confidence level of the soldiers about the might of the castle. The gates of the castle were strong. The walls were high and smooth. It appeared very formidable for any enemy to conquer.
(b) Reference : These lines are from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words while describing the circumstances that led to the conquest of the castle without any bloodshed. A greedy aged warden let the enemies in through a little wicket gate.
(c) Reference : These lines are from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words while describing the betrayal of the wizened warden. His betrayal resulted in weakening the tunneled maze into thin walls exposing the treachery and breach of trust by the warder.
(d) Reference : These lines are from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words while describing the evil impact of cunning invasion of the castle. The enemies ransacked the rare treasures of art and culture guarded in secret galleries in the castle.
(e) Reference : This line is from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words while describing the treacherous betrayal of the aged warden. He had taken gold and let the enemy in. The soldiers who were ready to lay down their lives to protect their castle were shamefully overpowered by the trick of the enemy and the greed of the warder. The soldier is reluctant to relate this shameful tale.
(f) Reference : This line is from Edwin Muir’s poem “The Castle”.
Context and Explanation : The poet says these words about the helplessness of the soldiers. They were taken by surprise by the enemies at night. The enemies had won them with gold against which they had no weapon. Human greed has destroyed the brave and loyal soldiers and the castle is captured by foes.
