Discuss the use of imagery in the poem "Medusa" by Carol Ann Duffy

Ultimately, the entire poem is an extended metaphor for a woman consumed by jealousy as she parts from her lover. Her jealousy is portrayed through the violent animalistic images of creatures the speaker is compared to; growing in size as her power builds. Starting as a "buzzing bee", she develops into a "snuffling pig", an image that is considerably less attractive than the small "bee" she could once be compared to, arguably showing how her physical form reflects the nature of her power as her jealousy grows.

HM
Answered by Helena M. English Literature tutor

18461 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does Stephens use Christopher’s book to explore Christopher’s feelings and attitudes to life? Write about: • some of Christopher’s feelings and attitudes to life • how Stephens uses the book to explore these feelings and attitudes


How do I write an A*/ A grade essay?


How do I approach the unseen commentary (Paper 1)?


I've been given London by William Blake to analyse for homework but I'm really struggling. There really aren't that many devices in it. My question is, how does William Blake present powerlessness in London?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning