Ch. 9 Online: Star Spangled Banner
October 25, 2009 by Administrator
Filed under AP US History, Student Work
What is the image of America portrayed in the Star Spangled Banner? Given this image, why was this song chosen as the national anthem?
| Your Answer: |
| Francis Scott Key’s poem, Star Spangled Banner, portrays America as a strong and glorious nation, even when actively entrenched in war. Key illustrates the battle in great detail, utilizing imagery in his quest to immortalize America in her fight against the British. Both lines five and six are great examples of Key’s vision, “And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.”
Francis Scott Key also portrays America as an idealistic nation, where brotherhood, freedom, and the brave all dwell; Key creates a nationalistic vibe throughout the whole piece. This is best exemplified by these following lines; “And the Star – Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!” This is most likely why Congress chose this song as the United States Anthem in 1931, it personifies the traits America holds sacred and tries to uphold in its decisions both domestically and internationally. Another view of America Key creates in his famous poem is a nation that is well-seasoned in war, and an indomitable spirit. Francis Scott Key drills this vison of America home in the following lines, “Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps’ pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave: ” In conclusion Francis Scott Kep prtrays America as an ideal nation, that is strong and glorious, and well-seasooned in war and defense. These qualities have become synonkous with America today, which is most likely why Congress chose this iconic poem as the offical anthem of the United States. |
