Macavity: The Mystery Cat by T.S. Eliot

Welcome to our in-depth analysis of T.S. Eliot's captivating poem "Macavity: The Mystery Cat." This poem offers a whimsical yet thought-provoking glimpse into the intriguing world of Macavity, a mysterious feline character shrouded in enigma and infamy.

Poetic Exploration

1. Understanding Macavity's Mystery

• The Hidden Paw: Explore the symbolism behind Macavity being called the "Hidden Paw" and how it signifies his elusive nature, leaving detectives puzzled and confounded.

• Master Criminal: Delve into why Macavity is regarded as the "master criminal" and how his cunning and intelligence make him a formidable adversary for law enforcement.

• Defiance of Laws: Investigate how Macavity challenges and defies not only human laws but the laws of nature, portraying his extraordinary abilities.

2. Literary Devices in Play

• Repetition and Alliteration: Uncover the impact of repetition and alliteration in the poem, accentuating key themes and characteristics of Macavity.

• Imagery and Personification: Explore the vivid imagery that T.S. Eliot employs to bring Macavity to life, as well as the personification that turns a feline into a criminal mastermind.

• Similes and Irony: Analyze the use of similes and irony in the poem, adding depth and humor to the portrayal of Macavity's character and actions.

3. Themes Explored

• Elusiveness and Deception: Understand how the theme of elusiveness and deception weaves throughout the poem, shaping Macavity's character and interactions.

• The Failure of Justice: Reflect on the theme of the inadequacy of the criminal justice system as depicted through the futile attempts to capture Macavity.

• Criminal Brilliance: Explore how the poem celebrates Macavity's brilliance as a criminal mastermind, comparing him to Napoleon and highlighting his strategic prowess.

Conclusion

"Macavity: The Mystery Cat" is a delightful exploration of a feline antihero, showcasing the prowess of T.S. Eliot's poetic craft. Through vibrant imagery, clever wordplay, and an enigmatic character, Eliot leaves us pondering the mysteries of the notorious Macavity.

Stay tuned for an in-depth analysis of each stanza and a deeper understanding of the nuances within this captivating poem!

About the poem

A. Choose the correct answer.

1.       Macavity is a mystery cat because he

(a)    has committed so many crimes.

(b)    can mysteriously levitate like the fakirs.

(c)     eludes even the Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad.

(d)    has a hidden paw.

2.       Macavity is called the 'Hidden Paw' because

(a)    he walks stealthily.

(b)    the detectives have no record of his paw-prints.

(c)     he makes other cats commit crimes on his behalf.

(d)    he is able to throw detectives off his trail.

3.       Macavity is said to defy the law as he

(a)    considers himself to be above the law.

(b)    disobeys, or breaks, all the laws of the country.

(c)     bribes the police and escapes from the crime scene.

(d)    puzzles police by not leaving paw prints at the crime scene.

4.       The words (They say he cheats at cards) are put in brackets because the speaker

(a)    found a case against Macavity at Scotland Yard.

(b)    finds Macavity respectable, though he has heard of his cheating.

(c)     has seen Macavity cheat at cards.

(d)    feels Macavity is too respectable to cheat.

5.       The theme of the poem is

  (a)    all cats are cheats.

   (b)    Scotland Yard and Flying Squad are unable to catch criminals.

   (c)    the failure of modern criminal justice system.

   (d)    the police can't catch a cat.

A. Answers.

1. (c) eludes even the Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad.

2. (b) the detectives have no record of his paw-prints.

3. (b) disobeys, or breaks, all the laws of the country.

4. (b) finds Macavity respectable, though he has heard of his cheating.

5. (d) the police can't catch a cat.

B. Answer the following questions.

1. Why are the Scotland Yard and Flying Squad confused and left in despair by Macavity?

2. What is Macavity's speciality? How many times does the poet refer to it? What is the effect of the repetition?

3. List the crimes attributed to Macavity for which he has never been caught.

4. Explain the phrase outwardly respectable with reference to Macavity.

5. Why does the poet call Macavity the Napoleon of crime?

B. Answers:

1. The Scotland Yard and Flying Squad are confused and left in despair by Macavity because he is a master criminal who can elude capture effortlessly. Despite their best efforts, they cannot catch him at the scene of the crime, and he always has a perfect alibi.

2. Macavity's speciality is his ability to defy gravity and his knack for leaving no evidence, particularly paw-prints, at the scene of a crime. The poet refers to this speciality multiple times for emphasis—each time Macavity's mysterious abilities are mentioned, it reinforces the idea of his extraordinary elusiveness.

3. The poem lists several crimes attributed to Macavity for which he has never been caught, including looting the larder, stealing from the jewel-case, abducting a Peke (a breed of dog), breaking the greenhouse glass, and more.

4. The phrase "outwardly respectable" implies that Macavity presents a facade of being respectable or ordinary on the surface. He appears to be a normal, well-behaved cat, possibly leading others to underestimate or overlook his true nature as a cunning and deceitful criminal.

5. The poet calls Macavity the "Napoleon of crime" to highlight his exceptional cunning and influence within the feline criminal world. This comparison to Napoleon, a renowned military strategist and leader, underscores Macavity's intelligence and leadership in the realm of crime.

C. Character Sketch of Macavity 

Macavity comes across as an evil and villainous character. Make a character sketch

of Macavity and explain the choice of the traits you make. Begin by remarking on his

physical characteristics, and then personality traits.

Physical traits

sunken eyes

What does it tell you about him?

clever and cunning

C. Character Sketch of Macavity: Answer

Physical Traits:

• Sunken eyes

Explanation: Macavity's sunken eyes suggest a cunning and calculating personality. Sunken eyes are often associated with secrecy, mystery, and a sense of depth. In Macavity's case, they indicate a feline of high intellect and craftiness. His eyes symbolize his ability to keep his true intentions hidden and to navigate the world of crime with cleverness and sagacity.

Personality Traits:

• Elusiveness: Macavity is extraordinarily elusive, always managing to escape capture by the authorities. This trait demonstrates his intelligence and skill in evading the law.

• Cunning and Deceitfulness: Macavity is a master of deceit, using his intelligence and slyness to commit crimes without leaving a trace. He manipulates situations and uses others for his own benefit.

• Strategic: The comparison to Napoleon implies a strategic and calculated mind. Macavity is not just a common criminal; he is a criminal mastermind who plans his actions meticulously.

• Unscrupulous: Macavity is willing to break any law and commit any crime to achieve his objectives. He is devoid of morality and ethics, making him a formidable and ruthless adversary.

• Influential: The poem implies that Macavity controls other cats to carry out his evil deeds. This suggests his influence over others, portraying him as a puppeteer pulling the strings behind the scenes.

The choice of these traits paints Macavity as a cunning, manipulative, and highly intelligent villain. His physical and personality traits align with the theme of the poem, emphasizing his ability to remain elusive and wreak havoc without ever being caught.

Appreciation

Repetition

Repetition is a literary device that repeats the same words or phrases a few times to make an

idea clearer.

Find examples of repetition used in the poem. What function do they perform?

Alliteration

Alliteration is the repetition of the initial letter (generally a consonant) or first sound of several

words, marking the stressed syllables in a line of poetry.

Example: He's broken every human law, he breaks the law of gravity:

Find other examples of alliteration in the poem.

Imagery

Imagery is a poetic device wherein the author uses words or phrases that appeal to any of the

senses or any combination of senses to create 'mental images' for the reader. The poet has

made good use of visual imagery to make Macavity come alive.

Example: Macavity's a ginger cat, he's very tall and thin

Find other word-images created by the poem.

Personification

Personification is a poetic device which attributes human qualities or personality to inanimate

objects or non-human beings such that they appear to be living human beings.

In the poem 'Macavity, the Mystery Cat', the cat has been personified as a criminal.

Find lines where Macavity has been personified.

Simile

A simile is a specific comparison by means of the words 'like' or 'as' between two different

kinds of ideas or objects.

Example: He sways his head from side to side, with movements like a snake

Is there any other simile used in the poem? Find out.

Answers:

Let's explore the literary devices you've mentioned in the poem "Macavity: The Mystery Cat" by T.S. Eliot.

1. Repetition:

   • Repetition of "Macavity, Macavity": "Macavity, Macavity, there’s no one like Macavity," The repetition of "Macavity, Macavity" emphasizes the enigmatic and elusive nature of Macavity, highlighting his mystery and the inability to capture him.

2. Alliteration:

   • "For he’s the master criminal who can defy the Law": The repetition of the "c" sound in "criminal" and "can" creates alliteration, emphasizing Macavity's criminal nature and defiance of the law.

   • "Or the greenhouse glass is broken, and the trellis past repair— ": The repetition of the "g" sound in "greenhouse," "glass," and creates alliteration, drawing attention to Macavity's contemplative nature.

3. Imagery:

   • "Macavity's a ginger cat, he’s very tall and thin."  This creates a vivid mental image of Macavity, portraying him as a distinctively tall and thin cat with a ginger coat.

   • "His coat is dusty from neglect, his whiskers are uncombed."  This imagery paints a picture of Macavity's unkempt and neglected appearance, contributing to his mysterious and rough persona.

4. Personification:

   • The entire poem personifies Macavity as a clever, elusive, and devious character. The way his actions and traits are described lend human-like qualities to the cat, depicting him as a criminal mastermind.

5. Simile:

   • "And when you think he’s half asleep, he’s always wide awake."  This line uses a simile to compare Macavity's seeming sleepiness to being "wide awake," emphasizing his constant vigilance and deceptive nature.

These literary devices enrich the poem, adding depth and vividness to the portrayal of Macavity as a cunning and elusive character, ultimately contributing to the playful and intriguing tone of the poem.

Critical Analysis

Macavity: The Mystery Cat" is a whimsical and clever poem written by T.S. Eliot, first published in 1939 as part of his collection "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats." The poem portrays Macavity as a master criminal, elusive and cunning, with a talent for evading capture by law enforcement. Eliot presents Macavity as an enigmatic feline figure who seems to effortlessly defy the rules and laws of society, making him a sort of antihero.

1. Structure and Style: Eliot's use of anapaestic tetrameter (a metrical pattern) contributes to the playful and rhythmic nature of the poem. The repetitive use of "Macavity, Macavity" emphasizes the cat's elusive nature and creates a sense of refrain, reinforcing the central theme of Macavity's mysteriousness.

2. Characterization of Macavity: Macavity is depicted as an intelligent and sly character, embodying both physical and intellectual prowess. His ability to evade capture through extraordinary feats like defying gravity and having airtight alibis establishes him as an exceptional antagonist. The poem describes him in great detail, giving him a larger-than-life presence.

3. The "Hidden Paw" and Elusiveness: The phrase "Hidden Paw" symbolizes Macavity's ability to stay concealed and operate without being caught. It represents his hidden criminal nature and the mystery that surrounds him. The repeated motif of Macavity not being at the scene of the crime reinforces his elusive nature and cunning intellect.

4. Breaking the Law: Macavity is portrayed as a character who not only breaks human laws but also defies the laws of nature, showcasing his extraordinary abilities. This heightens the sense of intrigue and adds to his reputation as a master criminal.

5. Comparison to Other Cats: The poem alludes to other mischievous cats like Mungojerrie and Griddlebone, suggesting that Macavity is the ultimate puppeteer, controlling their actions and using them for his nefarious purposes. This expands the concept of Macavity's reach and influence.

6. Allegory and Satire: While the poem is light-hearted and playful, it can also be interpreted as a metaphor for more serious themes. Macavity can be seen as a symbol of criminality, deceit, or even a critique of those who evade justice through manipulation and cunning.

7. Humour and Irony: The poem uses humour and irony to paint a vivid picture of Macavity's evasive behaviour. The contrast between his outwardly respectable appearance and his criminal actions is ironic and adds to the playful tone of the poem.

In summary, "Macavity: The Mystery Cat" is a delightful and entertaining poem that uses rhythm, characterization, and playful language to bring to life a mischievous and elusive feline antagonist. While it provides a light-hearted narrative, it also invites readers to contemplate themes of deceit, criminality, and the allure of the mysterious.

Summary

"Macavity: The Mystery Cat" by T.S. Eliot is a whimsical and intriguing poem that presents a captivating portrayal of a cunning and elusive feline character, Macavity. The poem begins by introducing Macavity as the "Hidden Paw," a cat known for being a master criminal who continuously outwits the law, leaving detectives from Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad in utter despair.

Macavity possesses an array of extraordinary traits that allow him to evade capture and confound authorities. He breaks not only human laws but also defies the law of gravity, showcasing his supernatural abilities. Throughout the poem, the speaker narrates various scenarios where crimes occur, and despite efforts to apprehend Macavity, he remains mysteriously absent from the scenes.

Imagery is skilfully used to describe Macavity's physical appearance, highlighting his ginger coat, tall and thin stature, sunken eyes, and uncombed whiskers. The imagery paints a vivid picture of a neglected and calculating feline, adding to the mysterious aura surrounding him.

The poem employs literary devices like repetition, alliteration, similes, and personification to emphasize Macavity's cunning and enigmatic character. The repetition of "Macavity, Macavity" accentuates his elusive nature, while alliteration adds a rhythmic quality to descriptions of his attributes. Similes and personification enhance the portrayal of Macavity's craftiness, often comparing him to serpents or mythical figures.

The phrase "the Napoleon of Crime" likening Macavity to Napoleon underscores his strategic brilliance and control over criminal operations. The poem continually reinforces the theme of Macavity's elusiveness, illustrating how he always manages to evade capture and baffles those who attempt to apprehend him.

Furthermore, the poem subtly criticizes the criminal justice system, showcasing its failure to apprehend a criminal as sly and intelligent as Macavity. It also brings humour into the narrative by exaggerating Macavity's abilities and creating a playful tone.

In conclusion, "Macavity: The Mystery Cat" is a delightful poem that combines wit, imagination, and poetic techniques to create a vivid and entertaining portrayal of a criminal mastermind in the form of a clever feline. Macavity remains an enduring enigma, captivating readers with his elusiveness and mischievous charm.

Answers:

1. What is the significance of Macavity being referred to as the "Hidden Paw"?

   • The term "Hidden Paw" symbolizes Macavity's elusive and mysterious nature, portraying him as a cunning and hard-to-catch figure. It suggests that Macavity operates stealthily, leaving no evidence or traces behind, making it difficult for authorities to apprehend him.

2. Why is Macavity considered the "master criminal" in the poem?

   • Macavity is seen as the "master criminal" due to his ability to outsmart the authorities consistently. He breaks laws effortlessly, defies gravity, and remains elusive at crime scenes. His unmatched intelligence and cunning nature establish him as a criminal mastermind.

3. How does Macavity challenge or defy human laws, according to the poem?

   • Macavity defies human laws by committing a wide range of crimes and managing to escape every time. He operates above and beyond the reach of conventional law enforcement, breaking not only moral and ethical laws but also the laws of nature.

4. Describe the reaction of Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad when it comes to dealing with Macavity.

   • Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad are frustrated and baffled by Macavity's ability to consistently escape their grasp. Despite their efforts, they can't catch him, and he remains an enigma, always one step ahead of them.

5. What effect does the repetition of "Macavity, Macavity" have in the poem?

   • The repetition of "Macavity, Macavity" emphasizes his mysterious and elusive nature, reinforcing the idea of his ability to escape and remain hidden. It also adds a rhythmic and emphatic quality to the poem.

6. Explain the imagery associated with Macavity's physical appearance in the poem.

   • The imagery of Macavity being tall, thin, with sunken eyes and an uncombed appearance creates a vivid mental image of a neglected and eerie figure. It enhances the portrayal of Macavity as a mysterious and unsettling character.

7. How is Macavity portrayed as a deceptive character in the poem?

   • Macavity is depicted as deceptive through his ability to disguise his true nature. He appears outwardly respectable, but his actions reveal his criminality. He uses this deception to evade capture and commit crimes without suspicion.

8. What do the sunken eyes and highly domed head signify about Macavity's character?

   • Sunken eyes and a highly domed head can symbolize intelligence, craftiness, and a calculating mind. These physical traits suggest a complex and scheming character who is always planning and thinking.

9. How is alliteration used to emphasize Macavity's attributes in the poem?

   • Alliteration, like "master criminal," "feline shape," etc., emphasizes Macavity's characteristics and reinforces the imagery associated with him. It adds a poetic and rhythmic quality to the description of his attributes.

10. Why is Macavity described as a "fiend in feline shape"?

    • Describing Macavity as a "fiend in feline shape" emphasizes his malicious and wicked nature, hidden behind a seemingly ordinary appearance. It highlights the dichotomy between his outer facade and inner character.

11. Explain the phrase "the Napoleon of Crime" and its significance in the poem.

    • Comparing Macavity to Napoleon suggests that he is a strategic and influential figure in the world of crime. Napoleon was a skilled military leader, and this comparison underscores Macavity's intelligence and control over criminal activities.

12. How does the poem convey the theme of Macavity being elusive and always one step ahead of authorities?

    • The poem repeatedly emphasizes Macavity's ability to escape and be absent from crime scenes. The descriptions of his cunning tactics and his knack for leaving no evidence underscore his elusive nature.

13. How does the poet use humor to depict Macavity's criminal activities?

    • The poem uses humor in its exaggerations of Macavity's abilities, such as levitation and being a "fiend in feline shape." These exaggerated descriptions inject a lighthearted and playful tone into the portrayal of his criminality.

14. Discuss the role of imagination in the poem, especially regarding Macavity's mysterious actions.

    • Imagination is key in depicting Macavity as a larger-than-life, elusive character. The poet encourages readers to imagine Macavity's fantastical abilities, adding intrigue and excitement to the poem.

15. How is the theme of the failure of the criminal justice system portrayed in the poem?

    • The repeated failures of Scotland Yard and the Flying Squad to capture Macavity illustrate the theme of the inadequacy of the criminal justice system in dealing with highly intelligent and elusive criminals.

16. What role do other cats like Mungojerrie and Griddlebone play in relation to Macavity in the poem?

    • Mungojerrie and Griddlebone are presented as agents or henchmen of Macavity, implying that Macavity is the mastermind behind their criminal actions. They serve to extend Macavity's influence and execute his plans.

17. What effect does the repetition of "he's not there" have in illustrating Macavity's elusive nature?

    • The repetition of "he's not there" reinforces the theme of Macavity's elusiveness and emphasizes the frustration and bewilderment experienced by authorities in trying to apprehend him.

18. Explain the irony in the phrase "you would know him if you saw him" in the poem.

    • The irony lies in the contradiction between the phrase and Macavity's actual elusive nature. Despite the claim that one would recognize him, the poem makes it clear that identifying Macavity is a difficult task, adding a humorous touch.

19. How does the poem suggest that Macavity is a calculating and strategic criminal?

    • The descriptions of Macavity's meticulous planning, his ability to evade capture, and the assertion that he controls other cats' criminal actions all suggest a strategic and calculating criminal mind.

20. Discuss the symbolism of Macavity breaking the law of gravity in the poem.

    • The reference to Macavity breaking the law of gravity symbolizes his ability to defy not only societal laws but also the fundamental laws of nature. It underscores his exceptional and supernatural-like abilities, adding to his enigmatic persona.