Revealing The Ideology Behind Love

In the Early Modern English period, literature frequently explored the theme of romantic love, reflecting diverse perspectives on its nature and significance in society. From Sir Thomas Hoby’s translation of Castiglione’s *The Courtier* to the poignant sonnets of Sidney, the discourse surrounding love was rich and multifaceted. Different texts offered varying ideologies, suggesting that love might be a pathway to virtue, a force that transcends death, or simply an experience in itself. This essay seeks to unravel the complex ideologies of love as portrayed in Early Modern English literature.

The Virtue of Love in *The Courtier*

Sir Thomas Hoby’s translation of Castiglione’s *The Courtier* establishes a foundational perspective on romantic love. In the fourth book, titled “The Ladder of Love,” love is depicted as a means to attain virtue through the recognition of true beauty and goodness. The text states that when a woman reveals her "angel-like beauty," a profound love emerges, one that is greater than ordinary affection. This notion posits that a gentleman should aspire to love a woman for her virtuous qualities rather than her physical appearance. The essence of this love lies in its ability to elevate the lover, making it a noble pursuit.

However, the text also issues a cautionary note: a man must navigate the complexities of love with reason, steering clear of “common love,” which is described as superficial and debasing. The courtier is advised to seek a higher understanding of love, emphasizing a balance between passion and virtue.

Astrophil and Stella: A Dramatic Exploration of Love

Sidney’s *Astrophil and Stella* dramatizes the ideals presented in *The Courtier*. Through the character of Astrophil, who grapples with unrequited love for Stella, Sidney explores the emotional turmoil associated with love. In the first sonnet, Astrophil believes that by writing sonnets, he might win Stella’s affection. The tension escalates in the fifth sonnet, where he acknowledges the existence of true beauty but ultimately rejects the notion that love is merely a means for personal betterment. The concluding lines reveal a conflict: while Astrophil understands the need for a higher virtue in love, his feelings for Stella remain paramount. This tension sets the stage for a broader conversation about romantic love during the era.

The Transformation of Love in Spenser’s *Amoretti*

Edmund Spenser’s *Amoretti* further develops the theme of love, illustrating the evolution of his affection for Elizabeth Boyle. Initially, the sonnet cycle emphasizes Elizabeth’s physical beauty, as seen in Sonnet 37, which describes her “golden tresses.” However, as the cycle progresses, a shift occurs. By Sonnet 79, Spenser articulates a deeper appreciation for Elizabeth’s intellect and virtuous mind, stating that true beauty lies in her character rather than her appearance. This transformation reflects the ideals of *The Courtier*, where love becomes synonymous with virtue. Ultimately, Spenser’s journey culminates in marriage, embodying the ideal of love that is both virtuous and transcendent.

Contrasting Views in More’s *Utopia*

In stark contrast to the romantic ideals presented in *The Courtier* and *Amoretti*, Sir Thomas More’s *Utopia* simplifies the concept of marriage to a transactional arrangement. The text describes a practice where prospective spouses examine each other’s bodies before committing to marriage, likening it to purchasing a horse. This pragmatic view of marriage eschews the notion of love, suggesting a societal perspective that prioritizes practical considerations over emotional connections. The absence of love in More’s narrative raises questions about the motivations behind marriage and challenges the romantic ideologies prevalent in contemporary literature.

The Ambiguity of Love in *The Faerie Queene*

In Spenser’s *The Faerie Queene*, love and relationships are briefly touched upon, revealing a complex interplay between virtue and desire. The Red Cross Knight’s interactions with Una highlight societal expectations surrounding purity and fidelity. The sprite’s advances towards the knight provoke feelings of jealousy and concern for Una’s honor, suggesting that notions of love and morality were deeply intertwined. This narrative reflects the tension between desire and virtue, echoing the themes explored in *The Courtier* and *Astrophil and Stella*.

Shakespeare’s Unique Perspective on Love

William Shakespeare’s sonnets provide a refreshing contrast to the previously discussed texts. In Sonnet 130, Shakespeare humorously critiques conventional beauty standards by listing his mistress’s flaws, yet concludes with a declaration of genuine love. He asserts that his love is as rare as any idealized comparison, emphasizing the importance of recognizing true virtue in love. This lighthearted approach to romantic love diverges from the more somber tones of earlier works, suggesting a more accessible understanding of affection.

Moreover, Shakespeare’s Sonnet 116 presents love as an eternal force, impervious to the ravages of time. He writes, “Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, / But bears it out even on the edge of doom.” This perspective imbues love with a spiritual quality, suggesting that true love not only endures but also elevates the lover, aligning with the religious connotations of eternal love found in other texts.

Conclusion: The Multifaceted Nature of Love

The exploration of love in Early Modern English literature reveals a complex and evolving ideology. Writers grappled with the relationship between love and virtue, often concluding that true love transcends mere physical attraction. Through their narratives, they articulated a belief that love could unlock a deeper understanding of beauty and morality. Whether viewed through the lens of courtly love, unrequited affection, or practical arrangements, the discourse on love remains a rich and intricate tapestry, reflecting the values and ideals of the time.

Works Cited

Greenblatt, Stephen, ed. *The Norton Anthology of English Literature*. 9th ed. Vol. B. New York: W.W. Norton, 2012. Print.