1a. Out of what was the "universal frame" created? Who or what began this process of creation? What powers are attributed to music in stanza 2?
2a. In stanza 7, who makes a mistake? What is the mistake?
3a. According to the Grand Chorus, what shall happen to humans during the "last and dreadful hour"?
4a. Describe the sounds the instruments praised in stanzas 3–7 make. How do the sounds of the poet's language compare to the instruments' sounds?
5a. What non-English persons are mentioned in the poem? To what effect? What other persons or things are mentioned that might distinguish the topic or occasion as special?
1b. What is the similarity between the process of creation and the notes of the musical scale? What role did harmony play in creation? What might the speaker be implying about the role of harmony in the created world in which we live?
2b. What role does Cecilia's invention have in this mistake? How does her creation transform the earth?
3b. How will music be involved in the end of the world?
4b. What similarities exist between music and nature, according to the speaker? What aspects of this poem suggest that the speaker views the universe as an orderly, harmonious place, governed or regulated by rational, discoverable laws?
5b. How does Dryden make the celebration of music extend beyond everyday experience?
Ode. What does Dryden praise in this ode? Identify three specific examples of this praise.
Allusion. Dryden makes several references to classical Greek and Roman literature and to the Bible. Identify two allusions. What connection exists in each allusion? What effect does the use of these allusions have?
1. Write a speech of praise about music. You may choose to write about music in general, about a specific type of music, or about a specific musician or song.
2. Write a song to commemorate a special event. Your song may be a narrative that explains the details of the event, or it may be a lyric piece that tries to capture the mood of the event.
3. Write an ode about something that you find very moving. Remember that your ode should praise or celebrate the subject you choose.
Subject/Verb Agreement. Rewrite and complete the following sentences by modifying the verb in parentheses to make it agree with its subject. Use the present tense.
1. In preparation for the performance, the orchestra tuning. (be)
2. The violin section two more chairs. (need)
3. Each member of the audience sitting in quiet anticipation. (be)
4. The audience to enjoy the performance immensely. (appear)
5. As the song ends, the chorus for the finale. (stand)
Press Release.Write a press release about the festival of St. Cecilia. Use information from the introduction and from additional research if necessary. Or, if you choose to create a festival of your own, write a press release about that event.
