Narrative Poem. A narrative poem is a verse that tells a story. Like most stories, a narrative poem has a setting; a protagonist, or main character; a conflict, or struggle; and a resolution, or final outcome to the conflict. As you read, identify these narrative elements in the poem.
Suspense. Suspense is a feeling of expectation, anxiousness, or curiosity created by questions raised in the mind of the reader or viewer. One way writers create suspense is by using details that create strong emotions. As you read, look for details that create a strong sense of emotion and curiosity about what is happening in the story.
Repetition. Repetition is more than one use of a sound, word, or phrase. Identify where Tennyson uses repetition in this poem.
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• History Connection. This poem is based on the Battle of Balaklava, fought on October 25, 1854, during the Crimean War. In the battle, a small force of British soldiers on horseback attacked a strong line of Russian troops armed with heavy artillery (cannons and large guns). Of the 673 British soldiers who fought in the Light Brigade, only 195 survived.
• The Crimean War, which started in 1853 and lasted for three years, was fought between Russia and the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey). The conflict was mainly over control of the Crimea and the vital seaports on the Black Sea. England, France, and Sardinia entered the war on the side of the Turks and fought several bloody battles in an effort to keep Russia from controlling the Black Sea.
Use a graphic organizer like the one below to identify evidence in the poem that reveals the setting, protagonist, conflict, and resolution.
How would you react if you were required to face a situation that might cost you your life?
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