I think this song is merely a form of pure art that spurs pathos for this girl, the "fairest damsel," whom is being held captive by Tom Paine.
Though she initially seems to be hostile ("She meant to do me harm," the narrator speculates), it was only because she was in a dreaded and desperate state, desperate for escape and freedom. There is a shift in the tone of the narrator as he finally accepts to free her, and he later describes her as a "lovely girl."
The song is a tragedy because he almost saves her from Tom Paine, but ultimately fails.
I disagree with most of the posts on here.
I think this song is merely a form of pure art that spurs pathos for this girl, the "fairest damsel," whom is being held captive by Tom Paine.
Though she initially seems to be hostile ("She meant to do me harm," the narrator speculates), it was only because she was in a dreaded and desperate state, desperate for escape and freedom. There is a shift in the tone of the narrator as he finally accepts to free her, and he later describes her as a "lovely girl."
The song is a tragedy because he almost saves her from Tom Paine, but ultimately fails.