From Beauty to Brutality: Interrogating Humanities under Siege in Modernist Poetry

Abstract

This article attempts to explore how modernist English poetry depicts the crisis of the humanities in the wake of World War I and the disillusionment it engendered. Moving away from the traditional focus on the “beauty” and “uplifting” nature of the humanities, the article argues that modernist poets presented a bleaker vision of the humanities under siege. This article begins by establishing the historical context, highlighting the devastating impact of the war on societal values, faith, and cultural ideals. It then analyzes how poets like T.S. Eliot, Ezra Pound, and W.B. Yeats utilize various techniques—fragmentation, imagery, and symbolism— to portray the brutality inflicted upon the very essence of the humanities. Furthermore, this article examines the themes of alienation and disillusionment in modernist poetry. It explores how poets depict the erosion of traditional values, the questioning of established institutions, and the struggle to find meaning in a world shattered by war. The article also acknowledges the influence of poets like W.H. Auden, who sought to reaffirm the power of the humanities to offer solace and meaning in the face of despair. However, the primary focus remains on the dominant theme of the humanities under siege, highlighting the anxieties and uncertainties surrounding their role. By analyzing specific poems and drawing upon relevant critical frameworks, the article concludes by demonstrating how modernist poetry serves as a powerful record of the crisis of the humanities in the early 20th century, offering valuable insights into the ongoing debate about their significance in a constantly evolving world