Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley: Summary and Themes
Ozymandias is a poem by Percy Bysshe Shelley, first published or performed around 1818. This study guide gives a summary, themes and revision tips.
Summary
A ruined statue in the desert shows that even great kings are forgotten.
Key Themes
The main themes are power, time and impermanence.
Quick Facts
| Title | Ozymandias |
|---|---|
| Author | Percy Bysshe Shelley |
| Date | 1818 |
| Form | poem |
Study Questions
- How does Percy Bysshe Shelley present the theme of power?
- Which characters or images best express the central ideas of Ozymandias?
- How does the poem form shape the reader's response?