Challenges

patriotism
and shows
the soldier is
driven by fear.

The soldier
is physically
disorientated
and is
questioning
why he
is there.

Uses the
pronoun
'he' rather
than naming
the soldier.
Suggests
that he could
represent
any soldier.

Terror
Confusion

Universal
language

Uses a lot of
enjambment
which
represents
the soldiers
urgency.

Structure

Bayonet Charge
- Ted Hughes

Form

Starts in the
middle of the
action. The
middle stanza
describes a
pause where
time stands still
for the soldier.

What's it about?

A soldier's
experience of
a violent battle.
Describes
his thoughts
as he avoids
being shot.

Figurative
language

Used to
emphasise
the horror and
physical pain.

Violent language
Use of
shocking
imagery to
help convey
the sense
of confusion
and fear.

Comparisons

Effects of
conflict - The
Charge of the
Light Brigade,
Poppies;
Reality of
battles - Belfast
Confetti;
Nature Mametz Wood