Despotic Sway

Poe’s reflections on decay within the Colosseum is a cautionary tale about civic engagement today. As many citizens become increasingly disengaged from political processes, there is a risk of societal decay reminiscent of the decline represented in Poe's poem. Encouraging active participation in democracy is essential to countering this trend.

While at first reading, the poem The Coliseum points at the decay of an ancient society - Rome - the poem also highlights the enduring relevance of Poe's work in analyzing contemporary society.

Transcript

Welcome to Celebrate Poe - Episode 298

I was really having problems coming up with a subject for today’s podcast episode - there is so much out there.   The day that I first contemplated this subject was the presidential election day in the United States.  I was lying in bed in the morning - and of course I hadn’t had anything to eat yet (something that always puts me in a bad mood - after I have something to eat, I realize life is worth living - before eating - not so much.  I started thinking about the possibility of public health being based on conspiracy theories. I began thinking about the destruction of the economy so that it can theoretically grow back as stronger - a crackpot theory from the richest man in the world with his own problems.

Then I had something to eat, and realized that there IS hope.  And I ran across a poem by Poe written in 1833 called The Colosseum - in my opinion, that poem could quite possibly be Poe’s greatest achievement - and I want to approach this in a slightly different manner - due to the poem’s references and allusions, it is hard to appreciate its greatness at first glance, so I want to talk about the poem first before the Ghost of Mr. Poe reads The Colosseum aloud.

And let me say before this podcast delves into a look at a Poe’s The Coliseum, note that the poem is deceptively simple, but at the same time an extremely complex work.  I will probably be throwing a lot of information out there, and hope you come to appreciate what I believe is one of Poe’s most underrated works.

Edgar Allan Poe's "The Coliseum" is a lyric poem of forty-seven lines. It first appeared in The Baltimore Saturday Visiter (Visitor) in 1833. After the writer revised it, the poem appeared in The Southern Literary Messenger in August 1835 and then The Saturday Evening Post on June 12, 1841.

Poe sets the poem in the Coliseum  - the amphitheater constructed in Rome between AD 70 and 82 near the Roman Forum. The amphitheater could accommodate fifty thousand spectators for gladiatorial contests, executions, fights between men and animals, and other "entertainments." It was originally named the Flavian Amphitheater, after the family name of the ruling Romans of the time. Emperor Vespasian commenced construction on it between AD 70 and 72. Emperor Titus completed and dedicated it in AD 80, and Emperor Domitian modified it between AD 80 and 82 to add an extra story. Over the centuries, fire, earthquakes, and weather damaged it, and looters took its marble stones. But much of the building still stands today as a symbol of ancient Rome. It is one of the modern city's most popular tourist attractions.  When I was much younger - and very, very stupid - I went with a group to Europe - was really excited to be away from home - and walked right into the ruins of the Coliseum - now this was quite a few years ago, and I thought it would be really cool to take a nap on one of the stones that a Roman citizen would have used for a seat. I wanted to imagin what it might have been like to watch a gladiator contest and take in the atmosphere of the Colosseum - and the place does have an eerie atmosphere that is impossible to describe. It was as though you could feel ghosts of Roman gladiators from the past. I did this for several hours, and then decided to go back to the hotel.  Thank goodness, the subways ran all night.  Later, I told some friends, and they said it was a wonder that I wasn’t mugged or worse - but that thought never entered my head - like I said, I was much younger - and very, very stupid.  But I digress…

In Poe’s poem, the speaker presents his thoughts in first-person point of view, identifying himself only as a traveler reacting to the atmosphere of the Colosseum.

Now, I believe the poem deals with the transience of glory as it reflects on the ephemeral nature of human achievements - in other words, that nothing lasts forever.  This theme resonates in today's fast-paced world, where social media often glorifies fleeting moments of fame and success. Events like viral trends can capture public attention for a brief period before fading into obscurity, mirroring the decay of the once-mighty Colosseum.

The poem reminds us that cultural monuments ARE significant.  Often more than we realize. In other words, just as the Roman Colosseum symbolizes the grandeur and eventual decline of empires, modern stadiums and arenas serve as symbols of cultural identity. Events such as major sports championships or concerts can evoke strong communal feelings, yet they also highlight issues like commercialization and the loss of local culture in favor of global brands.

Now the Colosseum was historically a site of gladiatorial combat, reflecting society's appetite for violence as entertainment. Today, this is echoed in various forms of media, including reality television and extreme sports, raising questions about our consumption of violence and its implications for society.

In the poem, the speaker makes a long and tiring journey to the Colosseum, a grand symbol of ancient Rome and its pomp and power. He has come to it—as have so many others over the centuries—to contemplate its extraordinary architecture and - like me as a stupid teenager - to imagine the events that took place there. He kneels humbly in its shadows to consider the lore of the place and to absorb its "grandeur, gloom, and glory" (line 9) - how’s that for alliteration!

The structure is vast and very old, and quiet, desolate, and dim. It casts a spell on him. He imagines the past, noting that where a column has collapsed a hero once fell. And where a bat keeps vigil, the emblem of Rome—a golden figure of an eagle—once looked down upon the crowds.

.......Women as well as men watched the spectacles in the arena, their hair waving in the wind. Now only reed and thistle wave in the winds sweeping through the Colosseum. And where the Roman emperor sat upon a marble throne, a lizard now glides over the ruins. 
1
.......The speaker asks whether ivy-covered arcades and decaying columns, friezes, and cornices are all that's left of the Coliseum. Echoes answer him, saying the stone ruins utter prophecies to the wise: These prophecies are the lessons that history teaches about how Rome became great and how it fell to ruin, like the Colosseum itself. The wise and the mighty learn from these lessons to avoid ruination for everyone under their influence.

The ruins of the Colosseum remind us of the environmental impact of human activities. As we face climate change and ecological degradation, discussions around preserving historical sites like the Colosseum can parallel efforts to protect our planet's natural landscapes from similar decay.

And new stadiums designed with references to ancient architecture reflect a longing for grandeur while serving as venues for current spectacles, much like the Colosseum did in its time.

Poe wrote "The Coliseum" during a time when Romanticism was prevalent, emphasizing emotion, nature, and the sublime. This context influenced his portrayal of the Colosseum as a symbol of both beauty and decay—reflecting societal anxieties about the past and an emerging industrial future. The fascination with ruins in Romantic literature often served as a critique of contemporary society's values and priorities.

There are many interpretations of the Colosseum in literature - Poe was not the only one.

Many contemporary authors reference the Colosseum to explore themes of power, mortality, and cultural legacy. For instance, novels that depict dystopian societies often use decaying monuments to symbolize lost civilizations.  But to be specific, here are just a few of the works that use the Colosseum as a backdrop or as a metaphor for modern struggles against oppressive systems.

1. "The Last Days of Pompeii" by Edward Bulwer-Lytton
While primarily focused on Pompeii, this novel includes references to the Colosseum as a symbol of Roman decadence and moral decay. The juxtaposition of the two locations highlights the eventual downfall of both cities and serves as a critique of Roman society.
2. "The Gladiators" by William H. Prescott
This historical work discusses the life and culture surrounding gladiatorial games, with references to the Colosseum as a central venue for these brutal spectacles. Prescott explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the societal implications of such entertainment.
3. "The History of Rome" by Titus Livius (Livy)
Livy's writings provide insights into Roman culture and public spectacles, including those held at venues like the Colosseum. His historical accounts reflect on how such events shaped Roman identity and societal values.
4. "The Martyrdom of Saints Perpetua and Felicity"
This early Christian text recounts the martyrdom of saints who were executed in arenas like the Colosseum. It highlights themes of faith and persecution, using the Colosseum as a powerful symbol of suffering for one's beliefs.
5. "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens
Although not directly set in the Colosseum, Dickens references it to evoke the brutality and violence of revolutionary times. The mention serves to draw parallels between historical spectacles of violence in Rome and the tumultuous events occurring during the French Revolution.
6. The classic six volume work by Edmund Gibbon called “The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire” - a work that Poe was definitely familiar with, and one that I will refer to in a future episode

And who can forget the classic movie with Russell Crowe - Gladiator - followed by Gladiator II with Denzel Washington.

These works illustrate how the Colosseum has been utilized in culture to explore complex themes related to power, morality, societal values, and human experience throughout history.

Now, getting back to Poe’s poem "The Coliseum" - it can also be effectively applied to modern political issues, drawing parallels between the historical context of the Colosseum and even contemporary societal dynamics. 

For example, Poe’s depiction of the Colosseum as a site of grand spectacle can be linked to how modern political events often serve as distractions from pressing issues. Just as the Romans used gladiatorial games to divert attention from social problems, contemporary politicians may use sensational media events or entertainment to shift public focus away from critical matters such as economic inequality or systemic injustice. This can be likened to the concept of "bread and circuses," where the populace is placated with entertainment while deeper societal issues remain unaddressed.

The Colosseum was notorious for its brutal spectacles, which can be paralleled with today's media landscape that often glorifies violence in sports, film, and reality television. This normalization of violence raises questions about societal desensitization and the implications for public policy, particularly regarding gun control and criminal justice reform. The way society consumes violence for entertainment reflects a troubling acceptance of brutality that can influence political discourse and action.

Poe’s exploration of power dynamics within the context of the Colosseum can inform discussions about modern governance and authority. The poem highlights how those in power manipulate public sentiment through grand displays, akin to how political leaders today may utilize media platforms to shape narratives and maintain control over public opinion. This manipulation can lead to a disengaged citizenry that feels powerless, mirroring the spectators in ancient Rome who believed they held power while actually being subjugated.

The decline of the Colosseum symbolizes the erosion of civic engagement. In modern contexts, this theme can be tied to calls for increased political activism and community involvement. Just as citizens in Poe's time may have felt disconnected from their leaders, today’s citizens face challenges in engaging with political processes. 

And recent protests against systemic racism or climate change highlight how public demonstrations serve as modern equivalents of the Colosseum's spectacles, drawing attention to significant issues while also showcasing the power dynamics at play.

Even, the manner in which news media frequently covers political events often mirrors the spectacle of ancient games, focusing on dramatic moments rather than significant policy discussions.

Major sporting events frequently become venues for political statements (e.g., athletes kneeling during the national anthem), echoing how the Colosseum was a space where societal values were both challenged and reinforced.

Now Poe wrote during a time when America was grappling with issues such as civil rights, class struggle, and national identity. The Romantic movement emphasized individual experience and emotion, which influenced Poe’s portrayal of decay and loss in "The Coliseum." This context allows for a critique of contemporary society's values, reflecting concerns about moral decay similar to those faced by Poe’s contemporaries.

In this series, I want to point out how historical symbols like the Colosseum remain relevant in understanding today’s political landscape. In fact, you don’t have to look very far, to realize that the themes in Edgar Poe's "The Coliseum" can be effectively related to contemporary political issues, particularly in the context of elections and political conflicts. For example, 
the Colosseum served as a means for Roman emperors to distract the populace from pressing social and political issues through grand spectacles. Similarly, modern politicians often use media events, rallies, and sensational news to divert public attention from critical governance failures or controversial policies. 
And just as the Colosseum was a tool for political propaganda, modern political campaigns frequently employ spectacle to shape narratives and gain support. The construction of the Colosseum on land taken from Nero symbolized a return to the people, akin to how politicians today may promise reforms or benefits that appeal directly to voters’ desires for change. This reflects a broader strategy of using public events to reinforce authority and manipulate public sentiment.

Even the strict, seating arrangement in the Colosseum reflected social hierarchies, where elites were closer to the action while commoners were relegated to higher tiers. This dynamic can be observed in today’s political rallies and events, where access often correlates with social status or wealth. The notion of who gets to participate in political discourse—and how they are treated—remains a pertinent issue in discussions about representation and equity within democratic systems.

The brutal spectacles of the Colosseum can even be compared to the sensationalism often seen in modern politics, where violent imagery or rhetoric is used to galvanize support or provoke outrage. This raises ethical questions about how violence is portrayed in media and its impact on public perception and policy-making, particularly regarding issues like gun control or law enforcement practices.

Poe’s reflections on decay within the Colosseum is a cautionary tale about civic engagement today. As many citizens become increasingly disengaged from political processes, there is a risk of societal decay reminiscent of the decline represented in Poe's poem. Encouraging active participation in democracy is essential to countering this trend.

While at first reading, the poem The Coliseum points at the decay of an ancient society - Rome - the poem also highlights the enduring relevance of Poe's work in analyzing contemporary society.

I decided to end this episode by reading Poe's poem without stopping to explain individual words or phrases, and just let it wash over you.

Type of the antique Rome! Rich reliquary
 Of lofty contemplation left to Time
     By buried centuries of pomp and power!
     At length—at length—after so many days
     Of weary pilgrimage and burning thirst,
     (Thirst for the springs of lore that in thee lie,)
     I kneel, an altered and an humble man,
     Amid thy shadows, and so drink within
     My very soul thy grandeur, gloom, and glory!

     Vastness! and Age! and Memories of Eld!
     Silence! and Desolation! and dim Night!
     I feel ye now—I feel ye in your strength—
     O spells more sure than e’er Judaean king
     Taught in the gardens of Gethsemane!
     O charms more potent than the rapt Chaldee
     Ever drew down from out the quiet stars!

     Here, where a hero fell, a column falls!
     Here, where the mimic eagle glared in gold,
     A midnight vigil holds the swarthy bat!
     Here, where the dames of Rome their gilded hair
     Waved to the wind, now wave the reed and thistle!
     Here, where on golden throne the monarch lolled,
     Glides, spectre-like, unto his marble home,
     Lit by the wanlight—wan light of the horned moon,
     The swift and silent lizard of the stones!

     But stay! these walls—these ivy-clad arcades—
     These mouldering plinths—these sad and blackened shafts—
     These vague entablatures—this crumbling frieze—
     These shattered cornices—this wreck—this ruin—
     These stones—alas! these gray stones—are they all—
     All of the famed, and the colossal left
     By the corrosive Hours to Fate and me?

     “Not all”—the Echoes answer me—“not all!
     “Prophetic sounds and loud, arise forever
     “From us, and from all Ruin, unto the wise,
     “As melody from Memnon to the Sun.
     “We rule the hearts of mightiest men—we rule
     “With a despotic sway all giant minds.
     “We are not impotent—we pallid stones.
     “Not all our power is gone—not all our fame—
     “Not all the magic of our high renown—
     “Not all the wonder that encircles us—
     “Not all the mysteries that in us lie—
     “Not all the memories that hang upon
     “And cling around about us as a garment,
     “Clothing us in a robe of more than glory.”

Join Celebrate Poe for episode 296 - Poe Meets Lord Byron - where this podcast takes another look at The Coliseum. 

Sources for this episode include The Coliseum for The Complete Works of Edgar Allan Poe, by Edgar Allan Poe, edited by James Albert Harrison, The Poe Log: A Documentary Life of Edgar Allan Poe by Dwight R. Thomas and David K. Jackson, Edgar Allan Poe: A Life From Beginning to End (Biographies of American Authors,) Evermore by Dr. Harry Lee Poe: Edgar Allan Poe and the Mystery of the Universe: The Reason for the Darkness of the Night by John Tresch, Poe and Place by Phillip Edward Phillips, Poe in His Own Time by Benjamin F. Fisher, and The History and Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - and no, I have not read all of the Decline and Fall and its almost 8,000 pages.

Thank you for listening to Celebrate Poe.