Ordered to be built by William the Conquerer in the center of his London fortress in the 1070s. The tower was used to guard royal possessions and the royal family in times of war and rebellion. It was also used to imprison enemies and rivals of the royal family, making it a symbol of fear. The tower is subject to many legends and myths, as some royals were murdered or went missing inside it. Today the Tower of London is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London.
Percy Shelley alludes to the tower of London in his poem "The Mask of Anarchy," stating:
"So he sent his slaves before
To seize upon the Bank and Tower"
This quote refers to Anarchy seizing London. Since the tower of London has a prominent place in London's skyline and is a symbol of power for the royal family, seizing it is a significant event.
This image shows the Tower of London in the 19th century, the century that "The Mask of Anarchy" was written and published.
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