Does anyone know the reason behind the poem "To Helen" and any background info on it?

-- Anonymous, November 13, 2000

Answers

Hello, I'm from Thailand. I would like to know too. Would you mind telling me some of the reason? Because I am studying in English Major and now I'm studying Poetry subject and I had an assignment about To Helen .

Thankyou so much,

-- Anonymous, December 09, 2000

Mr. Ekachai Chaitrakulthong,

The 1831 poem "To Helen" was probably written prior to 1828 but was printed in Poe's publication of "Poems" in 1831. Poe edited the poem over the years with minor changes to read as it does today. It was written in remembrance of Ms. Jane Stanard, the mother of a boyhood friend, Robert Stanard of Richmond Virginia. It is a celebration of classical beauty and Helen is a reference to the classic ideal of beauty, Helen of Troy.

I have also sent you a more detailed summary via e-mail. I hope you find it useful.

Regards,

-- Anonymous, December 09, 2000