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Cover of Ismael; an oriental tale. With other poems

Ismael; an oriental tale. With other poems

Written by Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton

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Waterloo, Battle of, Waterloo, Belgium, 1815English poetryGreek drama (Tragedy)Latin poetryNovels in verseIsmaʻil I, Shah of Iran, 1487-1524

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About this book

"Ismael; An Oriental Tale" by Edward George Lytton Bulwer is a narrative poem written in the early 19th century. The poem centers around Ismael, a young prince with noble lineage, who embarks on a quest to reclaim the throne of Persia, drawing on themes of love, war, and destiny. The characters include Ismael, whose valor is tested in battle, and Selyma, his beloved, whose faithfulness plays a pivotal role in his story. The opening of the poem sets a picturesque scene in Caymyr, where the tranquility of the evening is contrasted with the impending chaos of war. We are introduced to Ismael, who is depicted as a gallant and handsome youth, torn between his love for Selyma and his duty to avenge his father’s wrongful death. As he prepares to rally allies around his cause, the narrative delves into his memories of love and his childhood, foreshadowing the conflicts that lie ahead as he seeks to restore honor to his family and reclaim his rightful place in the kingdom.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Ismael; an oriental tale. With other poems, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 7 hours
  • intermediate
  • epic
  • romantic
  • heroic

Edward Bulwer Lytton's "Ismael; An Oriental Tale" is an early 19th-century narrative poem that plunges into the romanticized world of Persia, following the valiant Prince Ismael. Displaced from his rightful throne and driven by a thirst for justice, Ismael embarks on a perilous quest to reclaim his inheritance and avenge his father's death. The narrative intricately weaves together epic battles, political intrigue, and a passionate love story with Selyma, his steadfast beloved. Through Ismael's trials, the poem explores universal themes of duty, destiny, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war, all set against a richly imagined Eastern backdrop characteristic of the Romantic era.

“"When duty calls, and vengeance lights the way, / What fragile love can hold the soul in sway?"”

Key themes

Duty vs. Love
This is a core internal conflict for Ismael, who is torn between his profound love for Selyma and his inescapable obligation to avenge his father and reclaim his kingdom. The poem explores the sacrifices demanded by duty and the enduring power of love as both a burden and a motivator.
Justice and Revenge
Ismael's entire quest is predicated on avenging his father's wrongful death and restoring legitimate rule to Persia. The poem delves into the moral impetus for revenge, framing it as a necessary act of justice to right a profound wrong and restore balance to the kingdom.
Destiny and Fate
The narrative often suggests that Ismael's path is predetermined, that he is destined to reclaim his throne. This theme explores the interplay between an individual's will and a larger, guiding force, questioning whether heroes merely fulfill a preordained role or forge their own path through sheer will and courage.

Worth discussing

How does Lytton's portrayal of the 'Orient' reflect early 19th-century European perspectives and potential biases?

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