Overview
The traditional portrayal of England's landscape, particularly its 'green and pleasant' character as articulated by William Blake in his 1804 poem 'Jerusalem', is being re-evaluated in the context of climate change. This historical vision, which links the nation's identity to its physical environment, including 'mountains green' and 'pleasant pastures', is undergoing a transformation due to observed climate shifts.
Research Context
William Blake's 1804 poem 'Jerusalem' established a prevalent and enduring idealized vision of English pastoral. This poetic depiction, which includes phrases like 'mountains green' and 'pleasant pastures', has served for two centuries to fuse the character of the nation with its landscape. The concept of England as a 'green and pleasant' land has thus become an integral part of the national identity, influencing how the country is perceived both internally and externally.
Findings
Climate change is influencing England's 'green and pleasant' story. This phenomenon is altering the long-standing vision of the English landscape. The traditional association of the nation's character with its landscape, a concept sustained for over two centuries, is being recontextualized by contemporary climate shifts.