One-line Summary:
Goblin Market is a Victorian poem by Christina Rossetti that explores themes of temptation, sisterhood, and redemption through the story of two sisters and their encounter with goblin merchants.
Introduction:
Goblin Market, published in 1862, is a narrative poem by Christina Rossetti that tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, and their encounter with goblin merchants. Through vivid imagery and allegorical elements, Rossetti explores themes of temptation, sisterhood, and redemption. The poem is often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of indulging in forbidden desires.
The Temptation of Goblin Fruit:
The poem begins by introducing the idyllic world of Laura and Lizzie, who live in a secluded cottage surrounded by nature. One day, they hear the enchanting calls of goblin merchants selling exotic fruits. Laura, unable to resist her curiosity, succumbs to temptation and exchanges a lock of her hair for a taste of the forbidden fruit. The fruit’s intoxicating sweetness leaves her craving for more, and she becomes obsessed with the goblin market.
The Fall and Redemption:
As Laura indulges in the goblin fruit, she begins to waste away, both physically and spiritually. Lizzie, concerned for her sister’s well-being, decides to confront the goblin merchants and buy fruit to save Laura. However, the goblins refuse to sell their fruit to her, sensing her purity and innocence. Determined to save her sister, Lizzie allows the goblins to attack her, smearing the juice of the fruit on her face and body. She returns to Laura, who, upon seeing the juice on Lizzie, is miraculously healed.
Lizzie’s act of self-sacrifice and her refusal to succumb to temptation ultimately redeems Laura. The poem suggests that sisterhood and selflessness can overcome the allure of forbidden desires. Rossetti emphasizes the power of love and loyalty in overcoming temptation and finding redemption.
The Symbolism of Goblin Market:
Goblin Market is rich in symbolism, with the goblin merchants representing temptation and the forbidden fruit symbolizing various vices and desires. The poem explores themes of sexuality, addiction, and the consequences of giving in to one’s desires. Rossetti uses vivid and sensual imagery to convey the allure and danger of indulging in these forbidden pleasures.
Key Takeaways:
- Sisterhood and selflessness can overcome temptation and lead to redemption.
- Indulging in forbidden desires can have detrimental effects on one’s physical and spiritual well-being.
- The poem serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to temptation and the power of love and loyalty in overcoming it.
Memorable Quote:
“We must not look at goblin men, We must not buy their fruits: Who knows upon what soil they fed Their hungry thirsty roots?”
Goblin Market is a captivating Victorian poem that delves into the themes of temptation, sisterhood, and redemption. Through the story of Laura and Lizzie’s encounter with goblin merchants, Christina Rossetti warns against the dangers of indulging in forbidden desires. The poem’s vivid imagery and allegorical elements make it a thought-provoking and timeless piece of literature.
