Reasons why Tennyson wrote this poem:
Influence of the Medieval Period: Tennyson was greatly influenced by medieval romances and legends. The Lady of Shalott draws inspiration from the legend of Elaine of Astolat, who falls in love with Sir Lancelot but dies of unrequited love. Tennyson's poem reimagines this story and transforms it into a reflection on art and society.
Artistic Expression: Through the poem, Tennyson explores the role and nature of the artist. The Lady of Shalott is an artist who weaves tapestries depicting the world outside her isolated tower, but she can only observe life indirectly. This symbolizes the artist's struggle between immersing themselves in life and maintaining the necessary detachment to create art.
Isolation and Longing: The poem highlights the theme of isolation. The Lady of Shalott is confined to her tower, separated from the world she desires. Her longing for love and a more fulfilling life creates an internal tension that underscores the poem's emotional intensity.
Fate and Destiny: Tennyson uses the story to reflect on the inevitability of fate and destiny. The curse placed on the Lady of Shalott foreshadows her tragic end, demonstrating the limitations imposed on individuals by external forces.
Social Commentary: The poem can also be seen as a social commentary on Victorian society. It challenges societal expectations and conventions, especially regarding women's roles and their confinement to domestic spaces.
In summary, The Lady of Shalott was written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson as an exploration of themes such as love, art, isolation, and fate. It draws on medieval legends and addresses social issues of the time, inviting readers to contemplate the artist's role, the tension between art and life, and the constraints imposed by society.