Lochinvar — Important Questions

The Eske

Step 1: Look for river names mentioned in the poem. Step 2: In the second stanza, it says 'He swam the Eske river where ford there was none'. Step 3: This shows his determination - he swims across when there's no shallow crossing point. Step 4: The Solway is mentioned later but as a comparison for love, not as a river he crosses. Step 5: Thames and Tweed are not mentioned in the poem.

Netherby Hall

Step 1: Look for the name of the place where the wedding is taking place. Step 2: The poem mentions 'But ere he alighted at Netherby gate' and 'So boldly he enter'd the Netherby Hall'. Step 3: Netherby Hall is where Ellen lives and where her wedding is being held. Step 4: The glossary confirms that Netherby Hall is in the North of England. Step 5: The other locations are not mentioned in connection with Ellen's residence.

A laggard in love and a dastard in war

Step 1: Find the description of the bridegroom in stanza 2. Step 2: The poem states 'For a laggard in love, and a dastard in war'. Step 3: 'Laggard' means someone who lags behind or is timid, showing he's not passionate in love. Step 4: 'Dastard' means coward, showing he's fearful in war. Step 5: This creates a stark contrast with Lochinvar's heroic qualities of being faithful in love and dauntless in war.

Do you come in peace or war, or to dance at our bridal?

Step 1: Look for the father's dialogue in stanza 3. Step 2: The father asks 'O come ye in peace here, or come ye in war, Or to dance at our bridal, young Lord Lochinvar?' Step 3: This shows the father is suspicious and wants to know Lochinvar's intentions. Step 4: He offers three possibilities - peaceful visit, warlike intentions, or joining the wedding celebration. Step 5: The father's hand on his sword shows he's prepared for trouble.