Answer :
Final answer:
In "Ozymandias," the word 'pedestal' represents the support of the statue, symbolizing lost power and grandeur. The context of decay around the pedestal reinforces its meaning as both a physical and metaphorical foundation. A synonym is 'base,' which together with its context illuminates the theme of impermanence in the poem.
Explanation:
Understanding the Word 'Pedestal' in "Ozymandias"
In the poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley, the word pedestal refers to the base or support that upholds the statue of Ozymandias, its remnants lying near the sand. This word is used in a context that evokes imagery of grandeur turned to ruin, as epitomized by the phrase: 'And on the pedestal, these words appear.' The statue's pedestal signifies the once-great power and pride of Ozymandias, emphasizing the theme of impermanence.
To determine the meaning of pedestal, I considered the imagery surrounding it in the poem. The lines describe legs of stone and a shattered visage, both of which suggest remnants of a larger sculpture that once symbolized authority and might. The context, which portrays decay and emptiness surrounding the pedestal, helped to clarify that 'pedestal' conveys not only physical support but also a metaphor for the fleeting nature of power.
A synonym for pedestal would be base, which also captures the essence of support. Consulting a dictionary confirms that a pedestal is indeed a type of base, typically used for statues or monuments.
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