Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Why do you think Herbert decided to arrange "The Altar" in the shape of an altar? What effect does this have?
- What is the effect of all the biblical allusions in this poem? Do they make poem seem more like a collection of quotations than an original work of art? Do they make the poet seem more learned? Or pretentious?
- Herbert is often called a metaphysical poet. How do you feel about this label? How does his poetry compare to, say, a poem like this one by John Donne?
- Do you find this poem inspiring or moving? Why or why not?
- What is the significance of the words that are in all capitals ("ALTAR," "HEART," "SACRIFICE," "ALTAR")? What do you make of the order in which they appear?
- Why do you think Herbert never published his poetry while he was alive?