Literary Analysis of Edmund Spenser’s Sonnet Amoretti

Introduction
Edmund Spenser, a prominent figure in English Renaissance poetry, crafted a remarkable collection of sonnets titled “Amoretti.” Written in the late 16th century, Spenser’s sonnets not only showcase his mastery of the form but also provide a window into the emotions, themes, and techniques prevalent during the Elizabethan era. “Amoretti” consists of 89 sonnets documenting the poet’s courtship and eventual marriage to Elizabeth Boyle. Among these, Sonnet 75 stands out as a quintessential example of Spenser’s literary prowess and his exploration of the themes of love, mortality, and artistic permanence.
Themes of Love and Devotion
At the heart of Sonnet 75 is the theme of love and devotion. The speaker, presumably Spenser himself, addresses his beloved with a promise to immortalize her through his poetry. The opening lines, “One day I wrote her name upon the strand, / But came the waves and washed it away,” immediately set the tone for the poem. The act of writing the beloved’s name in the sand is emblematic of the ephemeral nature of human existence. The relentless waves that wash away the inscription symbolize the passage of time and the transitory nature of mortal life. However, the speaker counters this impermanence with his declaration that his poetry will defy time itself: “Yet did I not my name there only save; / When after death fresh death again affords, / And makes eternal the short-lived praise.”
This theme of transcending mortality through art is a hallmark of Renaissance literature. Spenser, like many poets of his time, believed that through his verse, he could achieve a form of immortality by preserving his beloved’s memory. This notion reflects the broader cultural belief in the power of literature to overcome the limitations of human life and grant permanence to emotions and experiences.
Techniques of the English Sonnet
Sonnet 75 adheres to the structure of the English (Shakespearean) sonnet, consisting of three quatrains followed by a final rhymed couplet. The rhyme scheme (ABAB CDCD EFEF GG) serves as a formal framework for the poem’s content. This structure allows Spenser to present a clear progression of thought and emotion while maintaining a sense of closure in the final couplet.
Within this framework, Spenser employs various literary devices to enhance the impact of his verses. The poem is replete with metaphor and symbolism, such as the waves representing the passage of time and the inscription on the sand signifying the fragility of human existence. The imagery of waves and sand serves not only as a visual representation but also as a tactile and auditory experience for the reader, engaging multiple senses to convey the theme of transience.
References to Classical Mythology
In line with the literary conventions of the Renaissance, Spenser incorporates allusions to classical mythology in his sonnet. The mention of “Neptune” in the poem conjures the image of the sea god, reinforcing the motif of waves erasing the inscription. The reference to Neptune serves to elevate the poem’s thematic scope by connecting the mundane act of writing in the sand to the grandeur of the classical world.
Furthermore, the idea of using mythological allusions to enrich the meaning of the text reflects the Renaissance fascination with classical antiquity and the belief that by invoking these mythic figures, poets could imbue their work with a timeless and universal quality.
The Role of Elizabeth Boyle
A crucial element in understanding Sonnet 75 is the identity of the beloved, widely believed to be Elizabeth Boyle, whom Spenser eventually married. This historical context adds a personal dimension to the poem, as it represents an intimate exchange between the poet and his future wife. The poem can be seen as a declaration of love and a pledge to preserve their relationship beyond the constraints of time.
Conclusion
Edmund Spenser’s Sonnet 75 from the “Amoretti” collection encapsulates the essence of Renaissance poetry through its exploration of themes of love, mortality, and artistic permanence. The formal structure of the English sonnet, the use of metaphor and symbolism, allusions to classical mythology, and the historical context surrounding Spenser’s relationship with Elizabeth Boyle contribute to the richness and complexity of the poem. Sonnet 75 stands as a testament to Spenser’s literary prowess and his ability to capture the universal human experience within the confines of a 14-line verse. As readers, we are privileged to glimpse both the poet’s inner world and the broader cultural currents of the Elizabethan era, making Sonnet 75 a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences across centuries.