Topic > Depiction of woman in Edmund Spenser's Sonnet Lxxxi

The depth perception in Edmund Spenser's “Sonnet LXXXI” discusses the physical appearance of a woman in a conventional way as it is characterized by society. However, the context of the text highlights the unique qualities of the woman, praising both the natural aspects of her beauty and her wisdom. Civilization is run and developed primarily by men, as women were thought to be vulnerable and constantly in need of care. The speaker's response supervises the ordinary representation of a woman and evaluates her intuition and individual status in society. Although the text focuses directly on women, the implications of the writing apply to all individuals within a society. Spenser's “Sonnet LXXXI” criticizes the physical and biological differences that exist between men and women, while outwardly belittling the reduction of women to their physical selves and highlighting equality for both sexes in society. It explores the idea that women are not entirely what society portrays them to be, giving rise to a reformed perspective of women within the social structure as they are expressed as equally capable and valuable as men. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The speaker of this sonnet evidently appreciates a woman's beauty. Yet his intelligence is heightened: “The gate full of pearls and rubies is richly lighted;/Through which his words so wise make their way.” These lines metaphorically represent her mouth and wise words, which present her as more attractive and meaningful. The element of intelligence enhances the true beauty of a person, enhancing the fact that physical appearance does not define beauty, but rather the knowledge of it. Spenser implements this concept, which deviates from society's norms. The constant application of the word “right” is ambiguous as it can analyze all people within society regardless of their status and gender. The passion depicted “in his eyes the fire” serves to demonstrate an individual's learning and ability to seek opportunities. Women and citizens of lower social status were unable to obtain an education and were afraid to express opinions due to social norms. The implication of the lines "Beautiful, when that cloud of pride, that often darkens / Its fair light" suggests the aristocrats to be proud of the woman in this sonnet. This trait is mostly associated with men and their masculinity. However, the text refers not only to women, but to all individuals within the social system, emphasizing the idea that everyone is significant and worthy of being a distinctive individual. Furthermore, this illustrates the equality of views between classes and gender within society, which is the focus of this text as lower class citizens and women were considered of less importance. The woman's “gentle vivacity” is used to indicate the symbolic representation of the great spirit of intellectuality and the power to express opinions, a notable action in a society that rejects individualism. The unique quality gives people a “chance to stand out” among others as the speaker embraces individuality. In a community where men of higher order are the main source of stabilization in the economy, Spenser re-examines the aspect of social stability while criticizing the notion that every individual is equally capable of maintaining a stable position in the economy. This can be shown in the phrase “precious merchandise he laid down.” The context of the text provides insights into the qualities of a woman.