Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822)
Level 1
1. Who was Ozymandias? (2)
2. What has happened to the statue of Ozymandias? (2)
3. What literary device is used in line 5 and how does it reinforce the overall impression of
Ozymandias? (3)
4. What do we learn about the character of Ozymandias from the poem? (5)
Use quotes from the text to support your answer.
Level 2
1. Why do you think Shelley chooses to have the story told by a ‘traveller’? (2)
2. The word ‘mocked’ in line 8 has two meanings. Explain the two different meanings,
referring closely to the poem. (4)
3. Comment on the use of enjambment in the poem. Make particular reference to the last
three lines. (3)
4. The overall tone of the poem might be described as ironic. Explain what this means,
referring closely to the poem. (5)
Extended essay
In what ways does Shelley powerfully convey ideas about life and death in Ozymandias? (8)