The boy stood on the burning deck, / Whence all but he had fled.
-- Speaker (Lines 1 – 2)

Importance: These lines open “Casabianca” and are important because they establish the focal character of the poem – “The boy,” Giocante – and the setting of the poem – the “burning deck” of a warship. These lines also establish a prime aspect of Giocante’s characterization throughout the poem: steadfastness. Even though “all but he had fled” from “the burning deck,” Giocante stoically remain. This flight contrasted with Giocante’s continued physical presence “on the burning deck” emphasizes, early on, his heroism.

As born to rule the storm; / A creature of heroic blood, / A proud though childlike form.
-- Speaker (Lines 6 – 8)

Importance: These lines suggest Giocante’s fulfillment within warlike setting of “Casabianca” the role of the epic hero: “born to rule the storm,” he is a larger-than-life character, “A creature of heroic blood.” This characterization makes Giocante seem unconquerable and undefeatable, even when facing...