In Matthew Arnold’s poem "Dover Beach," the phrase "melancholy, long, withdrawing roar" describing "The Sea of Faith" symbolizes what concept?

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The impact of the Protestant ReformationReligious explanations for oceanic transformationsThe diminishing role of religion in Western societyThe speaker’s personal experience of romantic betrayalThe rise of scientific rationalism

Explanation

In the poem, "The Sea of Faith" metaphorically represents the presence and influence of religion. The "melancholy, long, withdrawing roar" signifies the gradual retreat and loss of religious faith and its significance in the modern Western world. Therefore, option C correctly captures this theme.