The Charge of the Light Brigade

CONTEXT

Poet - Alfred Lord Tennyson

1809 - 1892 

From a middle class family.

His engagement to his future wife was at one point forbidden by her father due to Tennyson's poverty. 

In 1850, he was appointed Poet Laurette. This meant that he was expected to write verse on occasions of national significance. He held this position until his death in 1892. 

Wrote 'The Charge of the Light Brigade' in 1855, whilst serving as Poet Laurette. 

HISTORICAL CONTEXT 

Set in the Crimean War: 1853-1856.

A war against Russia, who were trying to take over Romania - Brits joined in in 1854 along with the France, Turkey and Sardinia. 

Britain joined out of fear - as they didn't want Russia to take over India if the war spread. 

Very unpopular war. 

Russians were retreating, but as they were, it became clear that they were trying to steal some heavy guns. The Light Brigade were ordered to ride in to protect the guns. 

The Light Brigade was made up of lightly armoured troops on horse-back, and the calvalry were the highest social status soldiers. 

Somehow there was mixed communication, the Light Brigade went to the wrong place and…