Author(s)

Sun Wei, Li Zhuo

Corresponding Author

Sun Wei

Abstract

This study employs a structuralist approach, particularly Saussure’s concept of binary opposition, to analyze the symbolic and thematic structures in William Blake’s poems The Tyger and The Lamb. These two iconic works are rich in symbolism and thematic contrasts, presenting a dualistic exploration of creation, morality, and divine power. By applying close textual analysis and interpretive methods, this research identifies and interprets the binary oppositions embedded in the symbols, structure, and themes of the poems. Key oppositions such as innocence versus experience, light versus dark, and creation versus destruction are systematically examined to uncover the underlying tensions that shape Blake’s poetic narratives. Additionally, the study highlights the Romantic context of the poems, emphasizing their philosophical depth and their engagement with the complexities of human existence. This research contributes to the understanding of Blake’s artistry while demonstrating the utility of structuralist frameworks in literary analysis, offering fresh insights into the dynamic interplay between form and meaning in poetry.

Keywords

Structuralism, The Lamb, The Tyger, Binary Opposition