The poem, Ozymandias "illustrates the vanity of human greatness" - comment. It is a poem on the conceit of those in power. One should understand the transience of human life and pretensions of fame and fortune. Identify the value conveyed through the message of the poem.
Answers
King Ozymandias considered himself to be the king of kings. He ruled over his empire with a firm hand. He ruled his subjects and regarded them as inferior. He was arrogant and highly conceited, and believed that no one would ever be able to equal his achievements.
He was so intoxicated with power that the welfare of his people was never his consideration. He believed himself to be above law and destiny.
But now his shattered statue, half buried in sand, with the waste and ruins around it proves that the time has leveled his fame and work. The ruins around the statue bear the testimony to the fact that nothing lasts forever.
This is the true destiny of man. He is insignificant before the power of time. The poem illustrates the vanity of human greatness. It depicts, that one must command respect and not demand it. One must never misuse power and might.
Glorious deeds should be committed to get respect from posterity. Real power lies in winning the hearts and not in ruling the weak and needy.