The Role of Birds in English Literature and Poetry

Dr. Roweena B Dcouto

Abstract: Birds have been represented in various forms and symbols since time immemorial, man has always had a fascination towards nature especially in birds. When we look up at the sky, or at a tree, or even if we were to go to the highest of mountains or the driest of places there is always some superior living creature which is soaring higher than the human being. Birds might not match the human size yet, definitely have been a source of inspiration for mankind in various ways. This paper gives us an understanding into the references of birds being made as manifestations of the supreme, sometimes as superstitions and religious beliefs, stronger representation of power for countries and divine interpretations for human beings. It is brings out a comparative analysis of how doves and vultures have been referred in various contexts by various poets in English literature.

Keywords: Birds, Doves, Vultures, love and death

Edition: Volume 5 Issue 4, April 2016,

Pages: 1014 - 1015