Exploring Identity in 'When We Are Old' by W.B. Yeats

Exploring Identity in 'When We Are Old' by W.B. Yeats

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to analyze the theme of identity in the poem 'When We Are Old' by W.B. Yeats.

What do you already know about exploring themes in poetry?

Introduction to W.B. Yeats

W.B. Yeats was an Irish poet known for his lyrical and symbolic poetry. His works often explore themes of love, aging, and identity.

Understanding Identity

Identity refers to the qualities, beliefs, and expressions that make a person or group unique. It can include aspects such as age, culture, and personal experiences.

Analyzing 'When We Are Old'

The poem 'When We Are Old' reflects on the passage of time and how it affects one's sense of self. It explores the theme of identity through the lens of aging and memory.

Structure of the Poem

The poem consists of three stanzas with a consistent rhyme scheme. The language is reflective and nostalgic, evoking a sense of longing and introspection.

Key Themes

Identify key themes related to identity in the poem, such as the passage of time, memories, and the enduring nature of love.

Literary Devices

Explore the use of literary devices such as imagery, symbolism, and metaphors in the poem to convey the complexities of identity and aging.

Critical Analysis

Encourage critical thinking by prompting students to analyze how the poet's portrayal of aging and identity resonates with their own experiences or observations.

Creative Response

Invite students to express their reflections on identity through creative writing, artwork, or personal reflections inspired by the themes of the poem.

Conclusion and Reflection

Summarize the key insights gained from exploring the theme of identity in 'When We Are Old' and encourage students to reflect on the significance of poetry in understanding human experiences.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.