Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is a hauntingly beautiful poem that has captured the imaginations of readers for over a century. With its vivid imagery, complex themes, and lyrical language, it is widely regarded as one of Rossetti’s greatest works. In this article, we will explore the poem’s meaning, symbolism, and literary devices, as well as its historical and cultural context, in order to gain a deeper understanding of this poetic masterpiece.
The Life of Christina Rossetti
Christina Rossetti was born in London in 1830, the youngest of four siblings. Her father, Gabriele Rossetti, was an Italian poet and political exile, and her mother, Frances Polidori, was the sister of John Polidori, the author of “The Vampyre.” Christina was raised in a devoutly religious household and was educated at home by her mother. She began writing poetry at a young age and published her first collection, “Goblin Market and Other Poems,” in 1862. Despite suffering from poor health throughout her life, Rossetti continued to write and publish poetry until her death in 1894. She is now considered one of the most important Victorian poets, known for her lyrical and deeply emotional verse.
The Victorian Era and its Influence on Goblin Market
The Victorian Era was a time of great change and progress in England, and it had a significant impact on the literature of the period. Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market, published in 1862, is a prime example of how the Victorian Era influenced poetry. The poem reflects the values and concerns of the time, including the role of women, the dangers of consumerism, and the importance of morality. The Victorian Era was characterized by a strict moral code, and Rossetti’s poem reflects this in its emphasis on the consequences of succumbing to temptation. The poem also reflects the changing role of women in society, as the two sisters in the poem are portrayed as strong and independent, yet vulnerable to the temptations of the goblin men. Overall, the Victorian Era had a profound influence on Goblin Market, shaping its themes and message and making it a timeless masterpiece of Victorian poetry.
The Theme of Temptation
In Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market,” the theme of temptation is a central focus. The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who are tempted by the goblin men to taste their forbidden fruit. The goblin men represent the temptation of desire and pleasure, and their fruit symbolizes the dangers of giving in to these temptations. Through Laura’s experience, Rossetti explores the consequences of succumbing to temptation and the power of redemption. The theme of temptation is a timeless one, and Rossetti’s exploration of it in “Goblin Market” continues to resonate with readers today.
The Symbolism of the Fruit
In Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market,” the fruit serves as a powerful symbol throughout the poem. The luscious and tempting fruit offered by the goblin men represents the allure of sin and temptation. The fruit is described in vivid detail, with its colors, scents, and flavors, making it impossible for the sisters to resist. However, the consequences of indulging in the fruit are dire, as Laura becomes sick and weak after consuming it. The fruit can also be seen as a metaphor for sexual desire, with the goblin men representing the dangers of giving in to such desires. The fruit’s symbolism is further emphasized by the fact that it is only the pure-hearted Lizzie who is able to resist its temptation and save her sister from its harmful effects. Overall, the fruit serves as a powerful symbol of temptation, desire, and the consequences of giving in to such impulses.
The Role of Sisterhood
In Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market,” sisterhood plays a crucial role in the story’s themes and character development. The bond between sisters Laura and Lizzie is tested when Laura falls prey to the goblin men’s tempting fruit. Lizzie, determined to save her sister, risks her own safety to obtain the antidote. This act of selflessness and loyalty highlights the power of sisterhood and the importance of looking out for one another. Additionally, the poem can be interpreted as a commentary on the societal expectations placed on women and the need for female solidarity in the face of patriarchal oppression. Overall, “Goblin Market” showcases the strength and significance of sisterhood in both personal and societal contexts.
The Portrayal of Women in Goblin Market
Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market is a poetic masterpiece that explores the themes of temptation, desire, and sisterhood. However, one of the most striking aspects of the poem is its portrayal of women. Rossetti presents women as complex and multifaceted beings, challenging the traditional Victorian stereotypes of femininity.
The two main characters, Laura and Lizzie, are sisters who are tempted by the goblin men’s fruit. Laura succumbs to her desire and becomes sick, while Lizzie resists and saves her sister. Through their experiences, Rossetti shows that women are not passive objects of desire but active agents who can make choices and take action.
Moreover, Rossetti challenges the idea that women are only valued for their physical beauty. The goblin men are attracted to the sisters because of their “golden locks” and “rosy cheeks,” but Laura’s beauty fades when she eats the fruit. In contrast, Lizzie’s inner strength and courage shine through, making her even more beautiful in the end.
Overall, Rossetti’s portrayal of women in Goblin Market is a powerful statement about the complexity and agency of women. Through Laura and Lizzie’s experiences, she challenges traditional Victorian stereotypes and celebrates the strength and resilience of women.
The Importance of Language and Sound in the Poem
In Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market,” language and sound play a crucial role in conveying the poem’s themes and emotions. Rossetti’s use of vivid imagery and sensory language creates a rich and immersive experience for the reader, drawing them into the world of the goblin market. The poem’s musicality, with its repetition, alliteration, and rhyme, adds to its enchanting quality and reinforces its themes of temptation, desire, and sisterhood. The use of onomatopoeia, such as the repeated “come buy” of the goblin men, creates a sense of urgency and danger, heightening the tension of the poem. Overall, the language and sound of “Goblin Market” are integral to its success as a poetic masterpiece, creating a world that is both alluring and dangerous, and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
The Religious Undertones in Goblin Market
Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is a poem that is rich in religious undertones. The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who are tempted by the goblin men to buy their fruit. The fruit is described as being “forbidden” and “enchanted,” which immediately brings to mind the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The goblin men are also described as being “evil” and “wicked,” which further emphasizes the religious themes in the poem.
The poem also contains references to Christianity, such as the line “We must not look at goblin men, / We must not buy their fruits.” This line is reminiscent of the biblical story of the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, where Satan tempts Jesus with food and other worldly pleasures. The fact that the sisters are able to resist the temptation of the goblin men and their fruit is also a nod to the idea of resisting sin and temptation in Christianity.
Furthermore, the poem can be interpreted as a commentary on the dangers of indulging in worldly pleasures and desires. Laura’s decision to eat the fruit leads to her physical and emotional deterioration, which can be seen as a metaphor for the consequences of giving in to temptation. Lizzie, on the other hand, is able to resist the temptation and ultimately saves her sister from the goblin men’s grasp. This can be seen as a representation of the power of faith and the ability to resist temptation through religious beliefs.
Overall, the religious undertones in “Goblin Market” add depth and complexity to the poem, and provide a commentary on the dangers of temptation and the power of faith.
The Significance of the Goblin Men
The Goblin Men in Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” are significant for several reasons. Firstly, they represent temptation and the dangers of giving in to one’s desires. The goblins offer the sisters exotic fruits that they cannot resist, but once they consume them, they become addicted and crave more. This can be seen as a metaphor for addiction to drugs or other vices.
Additionally, the Goblin Men can be interpreted as a symbol of capitalism and the exploitation of women. The goblins are described as “crafty merchants” who use their wares to lure in unsuspecting customers. The sisters are initially drawn in by the beauty of the fruits, but soon realize that they are being taken advantage of. This can be seen as a commentary on the way that women were often exploited in the Victorian era, particularly in the workforce.
Finally, the Goblin Men can be seen as a representation of the supernatural and the unknown. The sisters are warned by their friend Laura not to go near the goblins, but they are curious and venture into the forest anyway. This can be seen as a metaphor for the dangers of exploring the unknown and the consequences that can come from doing so.
Overall, the Goblin Men in “Goblin Market” are a complex and multifaceted symbol that adds depth and meaning to Rossetti’s poetic masterpiece.
The Reception of Goblin Market
The reception of Goblin Market has been varied over the years. When it was first published in 1862, it was met with mixed reviews. Some critics praised Rossetti’s use of language and imagery, while others found the poem too sensual and disturbing for a Victorian audience. In fact, the poem was initially marketed as a children’s story, but Rossetti herself later clarified that it was intended for a more mature audience.
In the years since its publication, Goblin Market has become one of Rossetti’s most celebrated works. It has been analyzed and interpreted by scholars and readers alike, with many finding new meaning and significance in its themes of temptation, sisterhood, and redemption. The poem has also inspired numerous adaptations, including musical compositions, theatrical productions, and even a graphic novel.
Despite its enduring popularity, Goblin Market remains a complex and challenging work. Its use of symbolism and allegory can be difficult to decipher, and its themes are often open to interpretation. Nevertheless, the poem continues to captivate and intrigue readers, and its place in the canon of English literature is secure.
The Legacy of Christina Rossetti and Goblin Market
Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is a poetic masterpiece that has left a lasting legacy in the literary world. The poem, published in 1862, tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling exotic fruits. Laura succumbs to temptation and eats the fruit, while Lizzie resists. The consequences of Laura’s actions are dire, but Lizzie’s bravery and selflessness ultimately save her sister.
The themes of temptation, redemption, and sisterhood in “Goblin Market” have resonated with readers for over a century. The poem has been interpreted in various ways, from a cautionary tale about the dangers of indulgence to a feminist allegory about the power of female solidarity.
Rossetti’s use of vivid imagery and rich symbolism has also contributed to the poem’s enduring popularity. The goblin merchants are described in grotesque detail, with their “long yellow teeth” and “eyes like small flames.” The fruits they sell are similarly otherworldly, with their “juice like melted rubies” and “pulp like honeycomb.”
In addition to its literary significance, “Goblin Market” has also had a cultural impact. The poem has been adapted into various forms, including operas, ballets, and even a graphic novel. It has also inspired countless artists, from Pre-Raphaelite painters to contemporary musicians.
Overall, Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is a timeless work of art that continues to captivate and inspire readers today. Its legacy is a testament to the enduring power of poetry and the human imagination.
The Influence of Goblin Market on Modern Literature
Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market has had a significant impact on modern literature. The poem’s themes of temptation, sisterhood, and redemption have been explored in various works of fiction, poetry, and even in popular culture. The influence of Goblin Market can be seen in the works of authors such as Neil Gaiman, Angela Carter, and Margaret Atwood. Gaiman’s novel, Stardust, features a magical marketplace that bears a striking resemblance to the goblin market in Rossetti’s poem. Carter’s short story, The Company of Wolves, is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood that explores the themes of temptation and desire present in Goblin Market. Atwood’s novel, The Robber Bride, features three women who are tempted by a seductive and manipulative woman, echoing the themes of temptation and redemption present in Rossetti’s poem. The influence of Goblin Market on modern literature is a testament to the enduring power of Rossetti’s poetic masterpiece.
The Connection between Goblin Market and Rossetti’s Personal Life
Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market is a complex and multi-layered poem that has been the subject of much critical analysis. One of the most fascinating aspects of the poem is the connection between its themes and Rossetti’s personal life. Rossetti was a deeply religious woman who struggled with her own desires and the expectations of society. This struggle is reflected in the themes of Goblin Market, which explores the tension between temptation and self-control, and the consequences of giving in to one’s desires.
Rossetti’s personal life was marked by tragedy and loss. She suffered from poor health throughout her life and was deeply affected by the death of her father and several close friends. These experiences are reflected in the melancholy tone of Goblin Market, which is filled with images of death and decay. The poem also explores the theme of sisterhood, which was important to Rossetti as she was very close to her own sister, Maria.
One of the most interesting aspects of the connection between Goblin Market and Rossetti’s personal life is the way in which the poem reflects her own struggles with sexuality and desire. Rossetti was a devout Christian who believed in the importance of chastity and self-control. However, she also had a passionate nature and was attracted to men who were often unavailable or unsuitable. This tension between her desire and her beliefs is reflected in the character of Laura, who is tempted by the goblin men but ultimately resists their advances.
Overall, the connection between Goblin Market and Rossetti’s personal life adds a layer of depth and complexity to the poem. By exploring her own struggles with temptation and desire, Rossetti creates a work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
The Role of Nature in Goblin Market
In Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market,” nature plays a significant role in the development of the poem’s themes and motifs. The lush, vibrant descriptions of the natural world serve as a backdrop for the story of two sisters and their encounter with the goblin men. The fruits and flowers that the goblins offer are described in vivid detail, highlighting their seductive qualities and the danger they pose to the sisters. Additionally, the poem’s use of natural imagery serves to underscore the themes of temptation, desire, and the consequences of giving in to one’s impulses. Overall, the role of nature in “Goblin Market” is essential to the poem’s meaning and impact, and it serves as a powerful symbol of the forces that shape human behavior and experience.
The Poetic Techniques Used in Goblin Market
Christina Rossetti’s Goblin Market is a poetic masterpiece that employs a variety of techniques to create a vivid and enchanting world. One of the most striking features of the poem is its use of vivid imagery, which brings the goblin market to life in the reader’s mind. Rossetti uses rich, sensory language to describe the sights, sounds, and smells of the market, from the “ripe plums” and “juicy pears” to the “luscious clusters” of grapes and the “sweet-scented rushes” that line the path.
Another key technique used in Goblin Market is repetition, which serves to reinforce the poem’s themes and create a sense of rhythm and momentum. The refrain “Come buy, come buy” is repeated throughout the poem, drawing the reader deeper into the world of the goblin market and emphasizing the allure of its forbidden fruits. Similarly, the repetition of the phrase “We must not look at goblin men” underscores the danger and temptation that the sisters face as they navigate the market.
Rossetti also employs a range of poetic devices to create a sense of mystery and magic in the poem. For example, the goblin men are described as having “eyes like small flames,” which suggests both their otherworldly nature and their potential to consume and destroy. The use of alliteration and assonance throughout the poem also contributes to its musicality and enchantment, with phrases like “fruit globes” and “silver bells ringing” creating a sense of wonder and delight.
Overall, the poetic techniques used in Goblin Market serve to create a rich and immersive world that draws the reader in and leaves a lasting impression. Through her use of vivid imagery, repetition, and other devices, Rossetti creates a poem that is both beautiful and haunting, exploring themes of temptation, desire, and the power of sisterhood.
The Narrative Structure of Goblin Market
The narrative structure of Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is a complex and multi-layered one. The poem is divided into two parts, each with its own distinct narrative arc. The first part introduces the two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, and their encounter with the goblin men. The second part focuses on Laura’s subsequent addiction to the goblin fruit and her eventual redemption through Lizzie’s sacrifice.
Within each part, Rossetti employs a variety of narrative techniques to create a sense of tension and suspense. The use of repetition, for example, is a key element of the poem’s structure. The repeated refrain of “Come buy, come buy” echoes throughout the first part, creating a hypnotic and seductive atmosphere that draws the reader in. Similarly, the repetition of the phrase “We must not look at goblin men” serves to heighten the sense of danger and forbidden temptation that surrounds the goblins.
Another important aspect of the poem’s structure is its use of imagery and symbolism. The goblin fruit, for example, is a powerful symbol of temptation and desire, representing both the pleasures and dangers of indulgence. The goblin men themselves are also richly symbolic, embodying the darker aspects of human nature such as greed, lust, and deceit.
Overall, the narrative structure of “Goblin Market” is a masterful example of Rossetti’s skill as a poet. Through her use of repetition, imagery, and symbolism, she creates a rich and complex world that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged until the very end.
The Analysis of Specific Lines and Stanzas
One of the most striking stanzas in Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market” is the seventh stanza of the first section. The repetition of the phrase “Come buy” creates a sense of urgency and temptation, drawing the reader into the world of the goblin men. The use of alliteration, such as “plump unpecked cherries” and “peaches and pears,” adds to the sensory experience of the scene. Additionally, the juxtaposition of the “forbidden” fruit with the innocent imagery of “snowy-white” and “roses” creates a sense of danger and temptation. This stanza sets the tone for the rest of the poem, highlighting the themes of temptation and desire that run throughout.
The Comparison between Goblin Market and Other Works of Rossetti
When it comes to the works of Christina Rossetti, Goblin Market stands out as a unique and powerful piece of poetry. However, it is not the only work of hers that explores themes of temptation, desire, and redemption. In fact, many of Rossetti’s poems share similar motifs and ideas, making them interesting to compare and contrast with Goblin Market.
One such work is “The Convent Threshold,” which also deals with the idea of a woman being tempted by a man and ultimately choosing to resist. In this poem, the protagonist is a woman who has taken vows to become a nun, but is visited by a man who tries to convince her to leave the convent and marry him. Like Lizzie in Goblin Market, the protagonist in “The Convent Threshold” ultimately chooses to stay true to her beliefs and reject the man’s advances.
Another poem that shares similarities with Goblin Market is “In an Artist’s Studio,” which explores the idea of a woman being objectified and consumed by a male artist. In this poem, the artist’s model is described as being “painted so to speak / As if she were a part of his own soul.” This idea of a woman being consumed by a man’s desires is also present in Goblin Market, where the goblin men are described as “sucking their fruit globes fair or red.”
Overall, while Goblin Market is certainly a standout work in Rossetti’s oeuvre, it is interesting to see how many of her other poems explore similar themes and ideas. By comparing and contrasting these works, we can gain a deeper understanding of Rossetti’s unique perspective on love, desire, and temptation.