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How Does Shakespeare's Use Of Comparison In Romantic Poetry

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“My mistress’ eyes” by William Shakespeare shows the poignant ability of comparison used within poetry. The speaker continually compares his mistress to various objects, mocking the perfection often told within romantic poetry. The comparisons are used to show images of classic romantic poetry, by flipping them upside down. This reverse emphasis lends a different form of imagery. The focus on comparison leads one to understand that the woman being described is not perfection, but just another normal female. The sonnet, despite seeming to be implying his mistress is not perfect, is not intended to be taken poorly. Instead, a parody of the classical romantic style is shown, ending with the speaker still insisting that despite imperfection, his Mistress is still entirely loved. …show more content…

Shakespeare seems to be attempting to insult his mistress, by reversing often said comparisons. Saying things such as, “Coral is far more red than her lips’ red” (Shakespeare 827), Shakespeare incites powerful points on the imperfection of the Mistress. These comparisons compound, leading the reader to assume that the individual being compared to is old, and not in her prime. However, the comparisons take a reverse ending, with a final comparison to the speaker’s own love. The speaker states, “And yet, by heaven, I think my love as rare, as any she belied with false compare.” (Shakespeare 828). This final comparison implies that the speaker is still in love with his despite her shortcomings. His love is only as rare, as something that occurs far too often. Thus, despite claiming that there are many of things better than his lover, the speaker still sticks to the undying devotion two in love

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