Love Symbols In Shakepearean Sonnets

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Introduction The sonnets of Shakespeare, 154 in number, have been the subjects of many literary controversies. The problems raised by this sonnet have taxed the minds of critics and commentators who have advanced many theories in an attempt to solve the problem. For the ordinary reader, of course, the best course is not to get entangled in this controversial theories but to enjoy the sonnets as poetry; but the advance student of literature simply can not get away from the problems which a detailed study of the sonnets is sure to raise. James Winny, writes: “the sonnets are among the most puzzling of Shakespeare’s works. The problems of their significance has been the cause of a controversy longer and more partisan than any of the plays has encouraged, with the single exception of Hamlet.” Love in the sonnets of Shakespeare means a range of things and we can not be satisfied only with the transcendent moments of sonnets like 1-4 (“If my dear love were but the children of state”). To emphasize this might approach the subject from a different direction that of sonnet 130 (“My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun”). The sonnet is justly well known as a piece of literary satire and is sometimes dismissed as nothing more. Actually, for all its lightness it is a serious poem and it does more than satirize the conventional way of writing love poems prevent in those days. Love Love is a strong feeling of deep affection for somebody or something. It can be a mother’s love for her children, love of one’s country and so on. It can be a sexual affection or passion to a male or female. Love also can be a love of learning, adventure or nature. In other words, a love is a form of address used by a man to a woman or child who is not necessarily a friend or by a woman to a man of either sex. Furthermore, love means to have a strong affection or deep tender feelings for

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