Suspiria de Profundis · Question
How does Suspiria de Profundis develop the theme of Childhood and Innocence?
Answer
Suspiria de Profundis by Thomas De Quincey develops Childhood and Innocence across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Childhood is depicted as a period of intense emotional experience and vulnerability, where early afflictions shape character and a solitary, rural upbringing fosters both innocence and a longing for lost connections.
The girl is described as a 'fair young head' and 'buried child,' evoking lost innocence and blighted dawn.
The female child represents innocence threatened by the violent tidings of war, yet ultimately appears in a vision of resurrection.
The deep tragedies of infancy, such as separation from a mother or sister, are highlighted as indelible imprints.
Evidence in the book
- III
The girl is described as a 'fair young head' and 'buried child,' evoking lost innocence and blighted dawn.
- IV
The female child represents innocence threatened by the violent tidings of war, yet ultimately appears in a vision of resurrection.
- The Palimpsest of the Human Brain
The deep tragedies of infancy, such as separation from a mother or sister, are highlighted as indelible imprints.
- The Solitude of Childhood
The chapter examines the unique solitude of childhood and the innocent yet intense longing for lost loved ones, contrasting with adult experiences.
- The Dark Interpreter
De Quincey reflects on the immense suffering of children and how even innocent infants can experience agony that expands their intellectual faculties.
- Endnotes
The chapter reflects on a child who puts off the childish mind due to suffering, and references the story of a schoolboy forbidden to return home.
