* The Lover/Mourner: This is a classic and universal archetype. The speaker mourns the loss of love, reflecting a common human experience of grief and longing. The poem's opening lines, "The sea is calm tonight," immediately establish the speaker's melancholic mood, and the imagery of the waves and cliffs suggests the vastness of his sorrow.
* The Intellectual/Observer: The speaker is a thoughtful and analytical individual who reflects on the world around him. He observes the natural world, but also contemplates the larger themes of faith, love, and the human condition. This introspective nature aligns with the archetype of the sage or philosopher, who seeks understanding through observation and reflection.
* The Doubter/Pessimist: The speaker is deeply troubled by the "melancholy, long, withdrawing roar" of the sea, which he interprets as a symbol of the decline of faith and the loss of meaning in a modern world. This doubt and pessimism are characteristic of the archetype of the disillusioned intellectual, who sees the world as a place of decay and despair.
These archetypal qualities resonate with readers because they reflect universal experiences and anxieties. The speaker's love, loss, and questions about the meaning of life are relatable, regardless of individual circumstances. His journey from hope to disillusionment reflects the complex and often painful realities of the human experience.
By drawing on these archetypes, Arnold creates a timeless and moving portrait of the human condition. The poem's enduring power lies in its ability to tap into the deepest anxieties and hopes of its readers, offering solace and understanding in the face of life's inevitable challenges.