The Prison

The prison is a metonymy, a type of symbol that represents itself while also standing for a larger idea. In this case, the prison represents the constraints others place on us. These constraints may be quite literal (like a prison), or they may be metaphorical, like societal expectations. Either way, the speaker suggests, freedom lies in overcoming them.

Eyes

Eyes symbolize romantic love. In early modern England, eyes, and the gaze, were potent symbols of romantic connection. Meeting someone’s eyes was often used as a metaphor for falling in love, and we see that echoed here as the speaker admires Althea’s eyes.

Hair

Hair was a symbol of female beauty. In an era when women kept their hair bound and out of sight, long, flowing hair was associated with sexuality. Through the description of being bound in Althea’s hair, the speaker creates...