Moran, Kien G.

CP-1A

GECC 101- UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

1. RESEARCH ON “INVICTUS”
1.1 Conduct research to find the background or an interpretation of the poem “Invictus”.
- The poem ‘Invictus’ is undoubtedly considered as the finest creation of William Ernest
Henley. A Latin word invictus stands for unconquerable in English. The very name of the poem
is suggestive of the tone and theme of the poem. It tells about the hardships and struggles of the
poet he faced in his own life and at the same time shows the indomitable spirit the poet used to
have to fight life and emerge as victorious. This article would endeavour to go deep inside the
life of the poet and discover the intimate relation of the poet with his own creation naming the
poem ‘Invictus’. This paper would also explore a structural analysis of the poem to establish an
identification of the larger than life attitude inherent and expressed in the poem itself. It would
also be an exploration of Henley’s belonging to the famously called Victorian Spirit.
1.2 Task: Write a summary of your findings
- "Invictus" is a poem written by William Ernest Henley in 1875. The title, which means
"unconquered" in Latin, reflects the central theme of the poem – resilience and the indomitable
human spirit in the face of adversity. The poem gained popularity for its powerful and
inspirational verses. The speaker expresses a steadfast determination to confront life's challenges
with unwavering courage and resilience. Despite facing difficult circumstances and the
"bludgeonings of fate," the speaker remains unbowed and unbroken. The poem emphasizes the
power of the human will to overcome hardships, emphasizing the individual's ability to control
their destiny and rise above circumstances. The last two lines, particularly famous, assert the
speaker's self-reliance and defiant attitude in the face of adversity: "I am the master of my fate, I
am the captain of my soul." These lines encapsulate the empowering message of the poem,
emphasizing the human capacity to persevere and maintain control over one's life regardless of
external challenges. "Invictus" has resonated with readers for its universal message of resilience,
determination, and the triumph of the human spirit, making it a timeless and enduring piece of
literature.

1.3 Citation Requirement: Please Cite your sources in APA format

- Arafat, S. F. (2019). Reflection of William Ernest Henley’s Own Life through the Poem
Invictus. International Journal of English Literature and Social Sciences (IJELS), 4(5).
 2. PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE “SELF” IN THE POEM.
2.1 Reflect on how the concept of “Self” is represented in “Invictus”
- "Invictus" portrays a robust and assertive concept of the "Self," emphasizing individual
strength, resilience, and autonomy in the face of life's challenges. The poem's central theme
revolves around the indomitable spirit of the individual, reflecting a sense of self-reliance and
personal empowerment.
2.2 Task: Write a paragraph explaining your interpretation of the representation of the “Self”
in the poem.
- In "Invictus," the representation of the "Self" exudes an unwavering sense of resilience,
autonomy, and inner strength. Through the poem's powerful verses, William Ernest Henley
portrays the individual as the master of their own fate, capable of confronting life's adversities
with unyielding determination and courage. The speaker's assertion of being the "captain of
[their] soul" underscores a profound belief in personal agency and self-reliance, emphasizing the
inherent power within each individual to shape their destiny. Despite facing daunting challenges
and the uncertainties of fate, the speaker remains steadfast, refusing to be cowed by the darkness
or the trials of life. This portrayal of the "Self" as indomitable and unconquerable resonates with
a universal human desire for autonomy and self-determination, inspiring readers to find strength
within themselves to navigate the complexities of existence with resilience and resolve.
3. PHILOSOPHICAL CORRELATION
3.1 Review the philosophical ideas discussed in class
- The conception of self in “Invictus” most closely correlates with the existentialist ideas of Jean-
Paul Sartre. Sartre saw humans as radically free to shape their own destinies. The poet echoes
this radical freedom in asserting his self-mastery. He seems to embodie Sartre’s famous
quotation “Man is condemned to be free.”
3.2 Task: Identify which philosophical idea(s) you think best describes the representation
of the self in “Invictus” and explain why.
- The self-determination and self-mastery on display in “Invictus” aligns most closely with
existentialist conceptions of radical freedom. The speaker shapes his own mindset and destiny,
embodying Sartre’s idea that “existence precedes essence.” Rather than accept a prescribed
meaning or fate, the defiant speaker seems to forge his own purpose and path. This highlights the
existentialist view of the self as free agent.
4. YOUR CONCEPT OF THE SELF
4.1 Reflect on your understanding of the self
My own understanding of the self aligns in some ways with the poem’s representation. I believe
we have great power in controlling our perspectives and attitudes. However, I think our “self” is
also shaped by external factors and our connections to others. After studying the philosophies
discussed in class, I have a greater appreciation for the complexity in defining the “self” and
personal identity. My concept of the self continues to evolve.
 4.2 task: Write a brief essay on how your idea of the self has been shaped or changed,
possibly influenced by the poem and the philosophical ideas discussed
- In the past, I viewed the self as largely a product of family, social and cultural influences.
However, “Invictus” demonstrates the power of self-mastery in the face of adversity. This shows
the possibility of self-authorship and selecting one’s mindset despite circumstances. My idea of
the self is evolving to appreciate this existential capacity for self-definition and determination.
While influences matter, I now see the self as an independent force that we can choose to command
by the meaning we assign it.