Shakespeare & Petrarch

January 12, 2010

Shakespeare and Petrarch

William Shakespeare and Francesco Petrarch were both known sonnet writers in their time. Along with his plays, Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets. Shakespeare and Petrarch both wrote in sonnet sequences which are groups of sonnets addressed to idealized and woman they would never obtain. Shakespeare wrote to many women who he wished to marry, and his mistress in Sonnet 130. Petrarch’s sonnets were written for a particular woman named Laura whom he wished to have but never confessed his love her.

Sonnet 130 by William Shakespeare speaks of a mistress who he compares to things that are not admired usually in woman. Shakespeare repeatedly says that his mistress’ features are nothing like far more beautiful things. Even though his mistress is not as beautiful as other women of that time Shakespeare is still glad to have her even with her imperfections and all. Though his attitude can be viewed as cruel by comparing his mistress’ hair to “black wires” and her scent to “perfumes is their more delight” , he finds his attraction to this woman rare, but likes it.

Sonnet 292 by Francesco Petrarch speaks of his love for Laura even after her death. Petrarch views his love as a beautiful woman whom he always loved. He speaks of her “waving hair of unmixed gold that shone”, and her “smile that flashed with the angelic rays.” Petrarch’s attitude to the woman he loves is more passionate and sincere than Shakespeare’s. Petrarch’s

“Sonnet 292” shows his desperation of loving Laura that were once there and were now “a little dust”. His memories of Laura live throughout the poem.

Though Petrarch and Shakespeare expressed their love for these women in two different ways, they both show deep interest for them. Shakespeare’s attitude toward his mistress’ seems harsh, but he finds it different than any other. Petrarch’s attitude for Laura is gloomy and miserable because she died, but still loves her and reminisces on what he loved best...