Literature as a concept of world picture
Literary description as a basic notion in Literature
Literature enhances our understanding of reality rather than merely depicting it, enriching the essential skills needed for everyday life In this way, it nourishes the barren aspects of our existence, much like water revitalizes a desert.
Literature plays a crucial role in our lives, encapsulating the essence of stories, epics, sacred texts, and timeless classics from both ancient and modern eras It is defined as the collection of written works that reflect a specific language, period, or culture, crafted by scholars and experts in their respective fields.
C.S Lewis emphasizes that literature enriches reality rather than just reflecting it, showcasing the thought patterns and social norms of society Literary works reveal various aspects of everyday life, serving as nourishment for imagination and creativity Engaging with quality literature provides individuals with invaluable educational opportunities, while a lack of exposure to classic works hinders personal growth and development.
Literature encompasses a diverse range of written works, including prose, poetry, drama, essays, and fiction, as well as literary creations rooted in philosophy, art, history, religion, and culture It also includes scientific and legal writings, along with creative nonfiction and literary journalism from ancient times Additionally, some highly technical texts, particularly in logistics and mathematics, are considered part of the literary canon.
Great literary works, including the Bible and Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, offer society essential life principles Ancient poets like Homer, Plato, Sappho, Horace, and Virgil, along with Shakespeare’s sonnets and the enduring poetry of W.B Yeats, John Keats, Wordsworth, Tennyson, and William Blake, create a timeless literary legacy.
Reading great literary and poetic works enhances one’s understanding of life by encouraging a deeper exploration of its various facets These writings can significantly shift perspectives and inspire personal growth Biographies of remarkable achievers illuminate their contributions to society, providing readers with valuable insights into their lives and ideals.
Literature acts as a vast repository of knowledge, showcasing groundbreaking discoveries by renowned inventors and insights from notable scientists It documents ongoing advancements in science and technology, ensuring global awareness of these developments Additionally, ancient texts that recount human evolution and life narratives have significantly contributed to our understanding of history Therefore, literature remains a reliable source of information, reflecting diverse perspectives from around the world.
Languages serve as the foundation of literature, yet the exploration of literature extends beyond mere language study Literature cannot be limited to an academic framework, and a degree in language and literature may not encompass the full richness that literature has to offer.
Literature transcends its basic definition as an acquaintance with letters; it serves as a cornerstone for a richer life, infusing vitality into our existence.
Engaging with great literature expands our understanding of the world, revealing its complexity and richness As Elain suggested, we may live in the best of all possible worlds, making it our collective responsibility to preserve its beauty for future generations Literature plays a vital role in this endeavor, serving as a powerful force for good that nurtures the soul, in stark contrast to destructive weapons that only harm the body.
Literature serves as both an art form and a vessel for cultural ideals, customs, and morals Through the written word, we gain insights into the diverse lives and experiences of people across different times and places This understanding applies not only to historical works, such as those of William Shakespeare, but also to contemporary literature, allowing us to learn from a wide range of perspectives.
Literature offers a deep and intricate glimpse into the lives of others while prompting readers to reflect on the nature of the art itself By employing literary devices such as metaphor, allusion, themes, and foreshadowing, readers can engage in a comprehensive analysis that transcends the text.
Literature is far more than mere imagination; it serves as a vital repository of a society's ideals, such as love, faith, duty, friendship, freedom, and reverence, which are essential to human existence The enduring legacy of the Greeks, Hebrews, and Romans lies in their literature, which encapsulates the ideals that shaped their civilizations and continue to influence future generations Our democratic values, celebrated across English-speaking nations, are rooted in the ideal of free and equal manhood, preserved in the great literary works from ancient times to the present Moreover, all arts, sciences, and inventions are built upon these foundational ideals, reflecting humanity's enduring aspirations to conquer nature and attain knowledge.
Our civilization, freedom, progress, homes, and religion are fundamentally built on enduring ideals Literature plays a crucial role in preserving these ideals across generations, even as societies and governments fade away This understanding highlights the significance of the devout Mussulman’s practice of safeguarding every written scrap of paper, as it may hold the name of Allah, reflecting the immense value of these ideals that must never be overlooked or lost.
To fully grasp the messages conveyed by writers, it's essential to understand the concept of literary description This type of text highlights the characteristics of a subject, employing language that enables readers or listeners to visualize the described elements Literary descriptions can encompass various subjects, providing vivid imagery and enhancing comprehension.
6 M.Bakoeva, E.Muratova, M.Ochilova, English Literature,2010, 263p
Major literary devices and techniques for creating a literary description
Literary devices are essential elements of literature that enable authors to express ideas through language, allowing readers to recognize, interpret, and analyze meaning These devices encompass both literary elements and techniques, serving as tools for creating depth and understanding in literary works They also provide a framework for comparing different works across genres, enhancing appreciation for the art form.
Literary elements are distinct characteristics inherent in all texts, encompassing essential components of storytelling such as theme, setting, conflict, and point-of-view These elements are not merely tools used by authors but are fundamental to the structure of every narrative For effective textual analysis, it is crucial to specifically identify these literary elements within the context of the text being examined.
Literary techniques are intentional language choices made by authors to convey meaning effectively These techniques often involve specific words or phrases and are employed at particular moments within a text Unlike literary elements, which may appear in all works, literary techniques are unique to individual authors and reflect their conscious decisions in writing.
Literary terms are the specific words we use to identify and describe various literary elements and techniques These terms exist outside of literature itself and are not utilized by authors in their works.
Allegory: Where every aspect of a story is representative, usually symbolic, of something else, usually a larger abstract concept or important historical/geopolitical event.
Lord of the Flies provides a compelling allegory of human nature, illustrating
Anthropomorphism is the literary technique where animals or inanimate objects are depicted as human-like characters, exhibiting traits such as walking, talking, and possessing human features like arms and legs This method allows for a creative storytelling approach, often mistaken for personification, as it attributes human qualities to non-human entities.
The King and Queen of Hearts and their playing-card courtiers comprise only one example of Carroll’s extensive use of anthropomorphism in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Characters are the individuals who populate and engage in a narrative When analyzing characters, it’s crucial to focus on their fundamental roles and the collective impact they have on the overall story, rather than merely on their individual traits or characterization.
Instead of centering on a single character, Lord presents a collection of concise vignettes and anecdotes featuring various characters, aiming to showcase a wide range of human behavior for the reader.
Golding uses his main characters to represent the different parts of the human psyche, to illustrate mankind’s internal struggle between desire, intellect, and conscience.
Characterization: The author’s means of conveying to the reader a character’s personality, life history, values, physical attributes, etc Also refers directly to a description thereof.
Atticus is characterized as an almost impossibly virtuous man, always doing what is right and imparting impeccable moral values to his children.
The climax of a story serves as the pivotal moment where the outcome becomes unavoidable, often marked by a sudden and significant turn of events that leads to the dramatic high point of the narrative While it is a key literary element, the term primarily aids in identifying and discussing the structure of the story rather than being analyzed in isolation.
The story reaches its climax in Act III, when Mercutio and Tybalt are killed and
Romeo is banished from Verona.
Conflict serves as the essential driving force in a story, representing a struggle between opposing forces that captivates readers The resolution of these conflicts is crucial, as it sustains interest and engagement throughout the narrative Conflicts can arise between individual characters, groups, or even between a character and societal norms, and they may also manifest as abstract struggles involving conflicting ideas.
The conflict between the Montagues and Capulets causes Romeo and Juliet to behave irrationally once they fall in love.
Jack’s priorities are in conflict with those of Ralph and Piggy, which causes him to break away from the group.
Man-versus-nature is an important conflict in The Old Man and the Sea.
Context: Conditions, including facts, social/historical background, time and place, etc., surrounding a given situation.
Madame Defarge’s actions seem almost reasonable in the context of the Revolution.
Creative license: Exaggeration or alteration of objective facts or reality, for the purpose of enhancing meaning in a fictional context.
Orwell took some creative license with the historical events of the Russian Revolution, in order to clarify the ideological conflicts.
Dialogue: Where characters speak to one another; may often be used to substitute for exposition.
Since there is so little stage direction in Shakespeare, many of the characters’ thoughts and actions are revealed through dialogue.
Dramatic irony: Where the audience or reader is aware of something important, of which the characters in the story are not aware.
Macbeth responds with disbelief when the weird sisters call him Thane of
Cawdor; ironically, unbeknownst to him, he had been granted that title by king Duncan in the previous scene.
Exposition: Where an author interrupts a story in order to explain something,
The first chapter consists mostly of exposition, running down the family’s history and describing their living conditions.
Figurative language refers to the use of words in a way that conveys meanings beyond their literal interpretation This includes various techniques such as metaphor, simile, hyperbole, personification, onomatopoeia, verbal irony, and oxymoron, which enrich the text and enhance the reader's experience.
The poet makes extensive use of figurative language, presenting the speaker’s feelings as colors, sounds and flavors.
A foil is a character designed to highlight contrasting traits, values, and ideas in relation to another character, typically the protagonist While it serves as a literary element for identifying and discussing character dynamics, a foil cannot be effectively analyzed in isolation.
The noble, virtuous father Macduff provides an ideal foil for the villainous, childless Macbeth.
Hyperbole: A description which exaggerates, usually employing extremes and/or superlatives to convey a positive or negative attribute; “hype.”
The author uses hyperbole to describe Mr Smith, calling him “the greatest human being ever to walk the earth.”
Iambic pentameter: A poetic meter wherein each line contains ten syllables, as five repetitions of a two-syllable pattern in which the pronunciation emphasis is on the second syllable.
Shakespeare predominantly composed his dialogue in iambic pentameter, skillfully rearranging words to adhere to this rhythmic structure, which enriched the language with deeper significance.
Imagery is a detailed language that evokes sensory experiences through descriptive words, encompassing visual and sound imagery It includes specific types of images, such as food and nature imagery, and is distinguished from mere description by its appeal to the senses, primarily visual To enhance clarity, it is beneficial to specify the type of imagery used and to consider the significance of the images themselves.
The author’s use of visual imagery is impressive; the reader is able to see the island in all its lush, colorful splendor by reading Golding’s detailed descriptions.
Irony, often referred to as situational irony, occurs when an event unfolds in an unexpected manner, contrasting absurdly with what is anticipated or deemed appropriate It's important to note that mere coincidence or surprise does not qualify as irony, nor do random occurrences Interestingly, many scenarios depicted in Alanis Morissette's song are not truly ironic, which adds a layer of irony to the song itself For further exploration, consider dramatic irony and verbal irony as additional forms of this literary device.
Jem and Scout are saved by Boo Radley, who had ironically been an object of fear and suspicion to them at the beginning of the novel.
Metaphor: A direct relationship where one thing or idea substitutes for another.
Shakespeare often uses light as a metaphor for Juliet; Romeo refers to her as the sun, as “a rich jewel in an Ethiop’s ear,” and as a solitary dove among crows.
Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere created within a literary piece, shaping the reader's overall feeling and experience It is distinct from the thoughts or emotions of the author or characters, focusing instead on the ambiance conveyed through the text As a literary element, mood must be accurately described or identified, rather than simply stating its presence in the work.
The mood of Macbeth is dark, murky and mysterious, creating a sense of fear and uncertainty.
Alisher Navai’s legacy and his impact on Uzbek literature
Alisher Navai’s biographical facts
Alisher Navai, born in 1441 in Herat, now part of northwestern Afghanistan, thrived during a period when Herat was the capital of the Timurid Empire and a prominent cultural hub in the Muslim world As a member of the Chagatai amir class, Alisher was part of the Timurid elite His father, Ghiyathud-Din Kichkina, a high-ranking officer in the palace of Shahrukh Mirza, ruled Khorasan, while his mother served as a governess to a prince After Ghiyathud-Din's death during Alisher's childhood, Babur Ibn-Baysunkur, the ruler of Khorasan, took on the responsibility of Alisher's guardianship.
Alisher, a schoolmate of Husayn Bayqarah, fled Herat with his family in 1447 due to political instability following Shahrukh's death They returned to Khorasan in the 1450s, and in 1456, Alisher and Bayqarah traveled to Mashhad with Ibn-Baysunkur After Ibn-Baysunkur's death in 1457, they parted ways, with Bayqarah focusing on political power while Alisher continued his studies in Mashhad, Herat, and Samarkand Following Abu Sa'id Mirza's death in 1469, Husayn Bayqarah took control of Herat, prompting Alisher to leave.
7 Erkinov, A (1998) "The Perception of Works by Classical Authors in the 18th and 19th centuries Central Asia: The
Example of the Xamsa of Ali Shir Nawa`i" In Kemper, Michael; Frank, Allen Muslim Culture in Russia and Central
Asia from the 18th to the Early 20th Centuries Berlin pp 513–526.
Samarkand to join his service Bayqarah ruled Khorasan almost uninterruptedly for forty years Alisher remained in the service of Bayqarah until his death on 3 January
1501 He was buried in Herat.
Alisher Navai led an ascetic life, avoiding marriage and family, while serving as a public administrator and advisor to Sultan Husayn Bayqarah He significantly contributed to Khorasan's infrastructure, founding and restoring around 370 mosques, madrasas, libraries, hospitals, and caravanserais Notably, in Herat, he oversaw the construction of 40 caravanserais, 17 mosques, and numerous other facilities His prominent works include the mausoleum of the 13th-century poet Farid al-Din Attar in Nishapur and the Khalasiya madrasa in Herat, contributing to the city's reputation as the "Florence of the Timurid Renaissance." Additionally, Navai was a patron of the arts, a musician, and a celebrated writer, earning the title "the Chaucer of the Turks" from historian Bernard Lewis.
Under the pseudonym Navai, Alisher played a pivotal role in transforming the literary landscape of Turkic languages, primarily writing in Chagatai Over three decades, he authored 30 significant works that elevated Chagatai to a prestigious literary status Additionally, Navai composed poetry in Persian, using the pen name Fani, and occasionally wrote in Arabic.
Alisher Navai's most famous poems are compiled in his four diwans, or poetry collections, encompassing approximately 50,000 verses Each collection reflects a distinct stage of human life, showcasing the evolution of experiences and emotions throughout one's journey.
• Ghara’ib al-Sighar (Wonders of Childhood)
• Navadir al-Shabab (Rarities or Witticisms of Youth)
• Bada'i' al-Wasat (Marvels of Middle Age)
• Fawa'id al-Kibar (Advantages of Old Age)
To help other Turkic poets Alisher wrote technical works such as Mizan al-
Awzan, a comprehensive study on poetic meters, serves as a crucial resource for understanding the intricacies of verse Additionally, his significant work, Majalis al-Nafais, features over 450 biographical sketches of contemporary poets, providing invaluable insights into Timurid culture for modern historians.
Alisher's other important works include the Khamsa (Quintuple), which is composed of five epic poems and is an imitation of Nizami Ganjavi's Khamsa:
• Hayrat-ol-abrar (Wonders of Good People)
• Farhad va Shirin (Farhad and Shirin)
• Layli va Majnun (Layli and Majnun)
• Sab'aiSayyar (Seven Travelers) (about the seven planets)
• Sadd-i-Iskandari (Alexander's Wall) (about Alexander the Great)
Alisher authored "Lisonut-Tayr" (Language of Birds), inspired by Attar's "Manteq-ol-tayr," where he articulates his philosophical and Sufi perspectives He translated Jami's "Nafahat-ul-uns" into Chagatai Turkic, renaming it "Nasayim-ul-muhabbat." Additionally, his work "Besh Hayrat" (Five Wonders) delves deeply into his religious and Sufi beliefs, while his Persian poetry compilation features an impressive 6,000 lines (beits).
Alisher Navai’s last work, Muhakamat al-Lughatayn (The Trial of the Two
Languages) is a comparison of Turkic and Persian and was completed in December
In 1499, Navai argued for the superiority of the Turkic language over Persian for literary expression, highlighting its richness, precision, and adaptability He consistently defended this perspective throughout his work, showcasing the unique qualities of Turkic vocabulary in contrast to Persian.
Below is a list of Alisher Navai’s works compiled by Suyima Gʻaniyeva, a senior professor at the Tashkent State Institute of Oriental Studies 9
9 Suyima Gʻaniyeva, a senior professor at the Tashkent State Institute of Oriental Studies
Badoeul-Vasat, known as the "Marvels of the Middle Age," is the third diwan of Alisher Navai's Hazoinul-maoniy This extensive collection features a total of 740 poems, including 650 ghazals, one mustazod, two mukhammases, two musaddases, one tarjeband, one qasida, 60 qit'as, 10 chistons, and three tuyuks, comprising 5,420 verses in total Compiled between 1492 and 1498, Badoeul-Vasat showcases the richness of Navai's poetic artistry and his contributions to literature during the Middle Ages.
- Waqfiya - a documentary work by Alisher Navai He wrote it under the pen name
Fani's "Waqfiya," written in 1481, offers a profound insight into the poet's life, spiritual experiences, aspirations, and unfulfilled dreams This significant work serves as a crucial resource for understanding the social and cultural dynamics of the 15th century.
LayliwaMajnun, also known as Layli and Majnun, is the third dastan in the Khamsa, narrating the tale of a man driven to madness by love Comprising 36 chapters and totaling 3,622 verses, this poignant work was penned in 1484.
"Lisonut-Tayr" is an epic poem that serves as an allegory for humanity's quest for God The narrative begins with birds recognizing their distance from their king and embarking on a challenging journey, filled with complaints A wise bird inspires them through admonishments and exemplary tales Written by Alisher under the pen name Fani between 1498 and 1499, this poem comprises 3,598 verses In its introduction, the author acknowledges that he composed this work in response to Faridud-Din Attar's "Mantiq-ut Tayr."
"Majolis un-Nafois is an anthology by Alisher Navai, composed between 1491 and 1492, with additional content finalized in 1498 This significant work includes eight meeting reports and provides valuable insights into the poets of Navai's era, documenting a total of 459 poets and authors The anthology has been translated into Persian three times during the 16th century and is also available in Russian."
"Mahbubul-Qulub," authored by Alisher Navai in 1500, is a significant literary work composed shortly before his death The text is structured into an introduction and three main sections, addressing the roles and responsibilities of various social classes in its first part The second section delves into moral issues, while the final part offers valuable advice and wise sayings This masterpiece reflects Navai's insights into societal dynamics and ethical considerations, making it a timeless resource for understanding social and moral principles.
Qulub has been translated into Russian.
- Mezonul-Avzon - Alisher Navai’s work about Persian and Turkic aruz Mezonul- Avzon was written in 1490.
Minhoj un-Najot, meaning "The Ways of Salvation," is the fifth poem in the Persian poetry collection Sittaizaruriya, also known as "The Six Necessities." Comprising 138 verses, this poem was composed as a response to the triumphant works of Khaqani and Ansori.
Analysis of Literary description of the reflection of human soul scenes in the
Alisher Navai's works are deeply characterized by his exploration of the human soul, evident in every piece he writes Reading Navai feels akin to engaging with a beautiful commentary on the Holy Koran, as his profound writings radiate warmth and illuminate the heart Below, we present a selection of his bayts that vividly portray the essence of the human soul.
Greatness is not merely about sharing a unique idea, achieving a distant goal, or inventing something new; it is fundamentally a journey shaped by a series of extraordinary events.
True greatness is in the survival of those inventions!
True greatness lies not only in survival but in the ability to maintain relevance over time Throughout history, many brilliant minds have emerged with innovative ideas, yet not all individuals who achieve remarkable feats are remembered as great figures This raises the question: what distinguishes those who are celebrated from those who fade into obscurity?
Since the death of Navai in 1501, many kings and sultans have come and gone, each with differing opinions about him; some admired his work while others despised it Unlike Navai, these rulers wielded both execution and authority, highlighting the contrast between their power and his enduring legacy It is not surprising that Navai has been regarded as a great man throughout the centuries.
The year 1941 was particularly challenging for Russians due to the ongoing war in Leningrad, yet it marked the 500th anniversary of Alisher Navai's birth, an event that the Soviets likely used for political purposes Despite the presence of various nations and notable figures within the Soviet Union, the remembrance of Alisher Navai highlights the enduring significance of cultural heritage, as echoed in the saying often repeated by our mothers: “People do not forget those who are dear to them.”
The Creator endowed individuals with unique talents, but only a few succeed in harnessing these gifts Possessing natural ability alone is insufficient; one must cultivate and nurture their talent to achieve true greatness Talent is a divine light, with poets serving as its vessels However, the growth of this talent is contingent upon a supportive environment If the surrounding conditions are poor, talent may falter, leading to indifference from others Negative traits such as envy, arrogance, and ingratitude can tarnish this sacred light, rendering the individual unworthy of their gift Consequently, even the most eloquent expressions from a poet may fail to resonate, as they are obstructed by barriers created by their own shortcomings.
Greatness emerges where pure personality—characterized by integrity of speech, heart, and appearance—merges with divine insight, representing a divine gift This harmonious blend signifies a connection to the Creator, exemplified by Alisher Navai, who epitomized this pinnacle of greatness Like a source of light, greatness evokes warmth in the heart, transcending time and space, similar to the sun that shines unconditionally, nurturing even those who claim to dislike it.
A man who expresses, “How can people find me?” has already discovered his true self He not only recognizes his flaws but also strives for purity and perfection As individuals embark on their journey of self-discovery, they realize that their bodies are like fields, where they reap what they sow This awareness leads to an understanding of the root causes of their suffering, prompting them to confess and seek forgiveness from God for their sins A profound hadith states, “Who finds himself finds Allah,” highlighting the beauty of self-awareness as a transformative experience This journey of self-improvement is the most honorable renaissance, sparking true life and kind intentions As you enhance yourself, you become motivated to shed the burdens of unproductive pasts and embrace the joy of each new dawn.
People's reluctance to embrace death often intensifies with age, driven not just by a desire for life's pleasures, but by a sense of responsibility to fulfill their obligations and debts, particularly after recognizing a higher purpose This inner and outer harmony, along with the integration of knowledge and its application, represents a crucial step toward achieving true happiness.
Every word of Navai leads us to ourselves A line (bayt) always comes to our lips, our soul hits with it and we feel hurt in our heart:
A man whom I wish speak to with, likes not to perceive, There is a man who wishes me, but heart will not receive.
Words are a divine gift, and poetic expressions shine like a radiant blessing, captivating hearts in unique ways Just as diverse flowers bloom in various shapes and colors, a poet's single intention can evoke countless interpretations among readers This distinctive quality of art makes it universally appealing Yet, one may find themselves yearning for a singular image, feeling incomplete without it, leading to a desperate pursuit of beauty While nights are filled with anxiety and days are driven by passion, the object of one's affection remains oblivious to their worthiness for connection Why is that?
We often reflect on our experiences, realizing the intensity of our passion for a stranger and the challenges of pursuing a specific goal without the necessary motivation This journey brings forth questions about the essence of our struggles and the spiritual pain we endure Ultimately, we must recognize that these trials are part of our destiny, reminding us of the profound lessons embedded in our paths.
There is a man who wishes me, but heart will not receive.
Reflect on how many people have longed for your presence: your mother misses your scent, your sisters crave your kindness, your friends seek your support, your disciples require your guidance, and your less fortunate relatives yearn for your visit While you once nurtured many hearts, your inattentiveness has led to indifference, leaving those who care for you in sorrow By turning away from them, consider the consequences—God may not look kindly upon this neglect Ultimately, this disconnect could result in a reality where those you once wished to connect with may no longer hold affection for you As ancient wisdom suggests, the things you dismiss may come back to need you in the future.
You hear these voices from the center of your heart It is the voice of YOURSELF found with honor of poet and poetry.
Youthfulness is your spring You are beautiful and green in this season.
The abundance you experience in autumn is a direct result of your efforts in spring, highlighting the importance of accountability for your actions While it is human to err, especially in youth, one must be mindful that mistakes have consequences Life operates in harmony, as demonstrated by the protective measures we take, such as wearing a skullcap to shield our heads and shoes to guard our feet Each aspect of our being, from our teeth to our minds, serves a purpose in maintaining our well-being When individuals feel passion yet retreat from responsibility, they often attribute their actions to love, claiming it as a deceptive force This raises the question: what truly defines love and its characteristics?
Lover is that man – hard to cure,
Whose tongue, heart and eyes are pure.
When a man falls in love, he experiences a profound sadness and introspection, resembling the state of someone unwell His demeanor softens, and he often finds himself speaking to his beloved, expressing longing and vulnerability The concept of a "pure tongue" signifies that a true lover remains honest, refrains from boasting, and avoids causing harm or spreading gossip They respect the confidentiality of others and uphold the integrity of their words If a person fails to embody these qualities, it indicates that they have not genuinely fallen in love.
What does “pure heart” mean? A true lover will never envy, complain and revenge.
He feels hurt in his heart but he will never be jealous If he suspects, avenges or envies, he has not fallen in love yet!
Sincerity is a hallmark of pure-heartedness, as true love is not possessive but rather selfless The essence of love transcends mere affection, leading to a purity of heart and mind This profound feeling enriches your life, ensuring a perpetual abundance of joy and warmth It signifies that love illuminates your heart, fostering a vibrant spirit that resonates with the melodies of life, keeping your soul alive and engaged.
William Shakespeare – Landmark in the development of English
William Shakespeare’s life events and their impact on his creations
William Shakespeare is widely regarded as the most renowned writer in the English language, celebrated for his impactful plays and sonnets Despite the many uncertainties surrounding his life due to limited evidence, this biography presents the most commonly accepted facts about Shakespeare's life and career.
In the mid-1500s, John Shakespeare relocated to the picturesque town of Stratford-upon-Avon, where he established himself as a prosperous landowner and moneylender, while also engaging in glove-making and trading wool and agricultural products.
During the expansion of the British middle class in the 16th century, John Shakespeare capitalized on the era's opportunities by joining the Stratford Council in 1557, marking the start of his political journey By 1561, he was elected as one of the town's fourteen burgesses and went on to hold various important positions, including Constable, Chamberlain, and Alderman, where he managed borough property and finances In 1567, he achieved the prestigious role of bailiff, equivalent to a modern mayor, solidifying his influence in local governance.
Town records indicate that William Shakespeare was John and Mary's third child His birth is unregistered, but legend pins it on April 23, 1564, possibly because
William Shakespeare was baptized on April 26, 1564, in Stratford, and he passed away 52 years later on April 23 While details of his childhood remain scarce, it is widely believed that he attended the King's New School, a local grammar school known for its Oxford-educated faculty The curriculum at this school included subjects such as mathematics, natural sciences, logic, Christian ethics, and classical languages and literature.
Shakespeare did not attend university, which was typical for his era when higher education was primarily for the wealthy elite, especially those pursuing clerical careers Despite this, the classical and literary references in his plays highlight the exceptional education he received at grammar school and his self-taught prowess His early works notably draw inspiration from the writings of Seneca and Plautus Moreover, Shakespeare's extensive general knowledge and vocabulary surpass those of any other English writer of his time, showcasing his remarkable literary talent.
In 1582, William Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway, who was eight years his senior Their first child, Susanna, was baptized six months later, leading to speculation about their marriage In 1585, Anne gave birth to twins, Hamnet and Judith, though Hamnet tragically died at eleven By the time of his son's death, Shakespeare had achieved success as a playwright Around 1589, he wrote his first play, Henry VI, Part 1, after relocating to London to pursue his career in theatre.
Despite the preservation of numerous records detailing Shakespeare's life in Stratford, such as his marriage and birth certificates, there is scant information regarding his early years as a playwright Legend paints him as a rebellious youth who allegedly fled London under mysterious circumstances.
Samuel Schoenbaum's "William Shakespeare: A Compact Documentary Life" highlights the limited written information available about Shakespeare, which leaves aspects of his personal life, including his love life, largely unconfirmed.
Young Will Shakespeare did not achieve immediate success in London, as noted by rival playwright Robert Greene in his 1592 work, Groatsworth of Witte, where he referred to Shakespeare as an "upstart crow" who believed he could match the best in blank verse This criticism, while not flattering, indicates that Shakespeare disrupted the established theatrical hierarchy early in his career Greene's remarks may stem from jealousy over Shakespeare's talent, though there is limited evidence to support this theory.
By 1590, Shakespeare had gained popularity as a playwright with works like Richard III, Henry VI, The Comedy of Errors, and Titus Andronicus A significant turning point in his career occurred in 1593 when he gained the esteemed patronage of the Earl of Southampton That same year, he published Venus and Adonis, one of his earliest printed works, which achieved remarkable success Following this, he released The Rape of Lucrece, further establishing his reputation as a poet, with most scholars agreeing that he composed the majority of his sonnets during the 1590s.
In 1594, Shakespeare joined the Lord Chamberlain's Men, a prominent acting troupe that later became known as the King's Men under James I By 1598, he held the title of "principal comedian," and by 1603, he was recognized as the "principal tragedian," remaining with the group until his death Despite acting and playwriting being viewed as unrefined professions, successful actors enjoyed a level of respectability Shakespeare's achievements afforded him considerable wealth, which he wisely invested in real estate, including the purchase of the New Place, the second largest house in Stratford, for his parents in 1597.
1596, Shakespeare applied for a coat of arms for his family, in effect making himself
19 Vickers, Brian Shakespeare, Co-Author: A Historical Study of Five Collaborative Plays Oxford University Press
(2002) Dillon, Janette (2007) 8.p a gentleman Consequently, his daughters made “good matches,” and married wealthy men.
In the same year he joined the Lord Chamberlain's Men, Shakespeare penned notable works such as Romeo and Juliet, Love's Labour's Lost, and The Taming of the Shrew By 1600, he had produced two of his most significant tragedies, Hamlet and Julius Caesar, with Hamlet often regarded as the first modern play due to its complex protagonist and innovative exploration of the human psyche The early 1600s marked the premiere of many of Shakespeare's acclaimed plays, including Othello (1604 or 1605), Antony and Cleopatra (1606 or 1607), and King Lear (1608) The final play performed during Shakespeare's lifetime was likely King Henry VIII, staged around 1612 or 1613.
William Shakespeare passed away in 1616, followed by the death of his wife, Anna, in 1623 at the age of 67 He was interred in the chancel of his church in Stratford, where the inscription above his tomb, believed to be penned by Shakespeare himself, can be found.
Good friend, for Jesus' sake forbear
To dig the dust enclosed here.
Blessed be the man that spares these stones And cursed be he that moves my bones.
The exact dates of composition and performance for nearly all of Shakespeare's plays are uncertain While the dates referenced in this discussion are generally accepted by scholars, considerable debate persists regarding the completion dates of many of his works.
William Shakespeare is widely regarded as the most renowned writer in English literature, known for his use of poetic verse in his dramatic comedies, tragedies, and histories In addition to his plays, he crafted a significant collection of 154 sonnets, showcasing his mastery of poetry.
Shakespearian sonnet as a new poetic form, arranged with three quatrains and a couplet Sonnet 18 (recited by an actor) comes from The Sonnets of Shakespeare printed in 1609
Shall I compare шее tо a summer's day?
Thou and more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer's lease hath all too short a date:
Shakespeare’s sonnets were first collected in book form by the printer Thomas Thorpe, who registered them on May 20, 1609, with the title Shake-speares
Analysis of Literary description of the reflection of human soul scenes in the
William Shakespeare, born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, is regarded as the most influential writer in English literature and a pivotal figure of the English Renaissance The son of a successful glove-maker, he received a basic education at grammar school before marrying Anne Hathaway and having three children Around 1590, he moved to London to pursue a career as an actor and playwright, quickly achieving public and critical acclaim Shakespeare became England's most popular playwright and co-owner of the Globe Theater, enjoying the patronage of both Queen Elizabeth I and King James I, who honored his company with royal status After a successful career, he retired to Stratford and passed away in 1616, leaving a legacy that earned him admiration from contemporaries like Ben Jonson, who regarded him as the pinnacle of Renaissance theatre.
Below we analyze human soul description in William Shakespeare’s sonnets. First of all, we try to give definition of sonnet.
A sonnet is a 14-line lyric poem typically composed in iambic pentameter, featuring lines of ten syllables with an accent on every second syllable, exemplified by the line, “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” This poetic form gained prominence during the Italian Renaissance, notably through Petrarch's love sonnets dedicated to an idealized woman named Laura The sonnet's popularity expanded among Italian poets and eventually spread to England, influencing the literary landscape.
The Renaissance period saw a resurgence of interest in the sonnet form, particularly during Elizabethan England, when it became the preferred choice for lyric poets This era, marked by the creation of Shakespeare’s sonnets, was characterized by poets exploring timeless themes of love and romance Notably, alongside Shakespeare's significant contributions, works like "Astrophel and Stella" also exemplified the sonnet's enduring appeal.
The "Stella" sequence by Sir Philip Sidney is a pivotal sonnet collection from its era Notable poets such as Dryden and Pope contributed to the sonnet form during the peak of classical English verse The Romantic period saw a resurgence of sonnets, with Wordsworth, Shelley, and especially John Keats producing remarkable works Today, the sonnet continues to be the most significant and influential verse form in the history of English poetry.
The sonnet form is often linked to romantic love, originating from thirteenth- and fourteenth-century Italy, where poets expressed their deep feelings for their beloveds and patrons These early sonnets were directed towards idealized women and wealthy noblemen, who provided financial support in exchange for poetic admiration Notably, Shakespeare's sonnets were dedicated to the enigmatic "Mr W H.," whose identity continues to intrigue scholars.
Shakespeare dedicated his earlier poems, Venus and Adonis and Rape of Lucrece, to Henry Wriothesly, the earl of Southampton, although the nature of Wriothesly's reciprocation remains unknown Unlike traditional practices, Shakespeare's sonnets predominantly addressed an unnamed young man, likely Wriothesly, a unique choice for Elizabethan England Through these sonnets, Shakespeare delves into various forms of love, exploring the relationships between the speaker and the young man, the young man and the dark lady, and the dark lady and the speaker The speaker conveys deep affection for the young man, praises his beauty, and expresses what can be interpreted as homosexual desire In contrast, the dark lady is portrayed as earthy, sexual, and unfaithful, starkly differing from the idealized lovers found in other sonnet sequences like Astrophil.
Sir Philip Sidney's "Stella," a work contemporary with Shakespeare, highlights themes of angelic beauty, virginity, and unwavering devotion The sonnets delve into the complexities of the human soul and the nature of love, contrasting the idealized portrayals of love in poetry with the messy realities of actual relationships.
Poor soul, the centre of my sinful earth, [ ] these rebel powers that thee array;
Why dost thou pine within and suffer dearth, Painting thy outward walls so costly gay?
Why so large cost, having so short a lease, Dost thou upon thy fading mansion spend?
Shall worms, inheritors of this excess, Eat up thy charge? is this thy body’s end?
Then soul, live thou upon thy servant’s loss, And let that pine to aggravate thy store;
Buy terms divine in selling hours of dross;
Within be fed, without be rich no more:
So shalt thou feed on Death, that feeds on men, And Death once dead, there’s no more dying then.
In this poem, the speaker implores his soul to reflect on its suffering within his "sinful earth" (the body) while he prioritizes superficial appearances He questions why the soul invests so much in decorating the body, given its brief existence in the "fading mansion," and wonders if it will allow worms to consume its essence after death The speaker urges the soul to focus on its inner well-being rather than the body's outward facade, suggesting that the body’s fleeting moments can be exchanged for divine rewards Ultimately, he advises the soul to nourish itself from within, asserting that by embracing death, it can attain eternal life.
“And death once dead, there’s no more dying then.”
From fairest creatures we desire increase, That thereby beauty’s rose might never die, But as the riper should by time decease, His tender heir might bear his memory:
In a self-destructive cycle, you nourish your own brilliance with an insatiable hunger, creating a scarcity where there should be plenty Ironically, you become your own adversary, inflicting cruelty upon the very essence of your being.
Thou that art now the world’s fresh ornament And only herald to the gaudy spring, Within thine own bud buriest thy content And, tender churl, makest waste in niggarding.
Pity the world, or else this glutton be,
To eat the world’s due, by the grave and thee.
The first sonnet emphasizes the desire to preserve beauty through procreation, suggesting that beautiful creatures should multiply to maintain their legacy after death The speaker criticizes the young man for being too self-absorbed to consider having children, which ultimately makes him his own enemy by not passing on his beauty In the third quatrain, the speaker acknowledges the young man's current beauty but warns that it will fade over time, leaving no legacy behind The sonnet concludes with a plea for the young man to consider the world's need for beauty and to reproduce, rather than selfishly hoarding his own charm.
Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer’s lease hath all too short a date:
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines, And often is his gold complexion dimm’d;
And every fair from fair sometime declines,
By chance or nature’s changing course untrimm’d;
But thy eternal summer shall not fade Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest;
Nor shall Death brag thou wander’st in his shade, When in eternal lines to time thou growest:
So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.
In the poem, the speaker begins by questioning whether to compare the beloved to a summer's day, ultimately highlighting that the beloved is "more lovely and more temperate." Unlike summer, which is marked by extremes and fleeting beauty, the beloved's beauty is eternal and will not fade The poem concludes with the assurance that the beloved's beauty will be preserved forever within its lines, lasting "as long as men can breathe or eyes can see."
Like as the waves make towards the pebbled shore,
So do our minutes hasten to their end;
Each changing place with that which goes before,
In sequent toil all forwards do contend.
Nativity, once in the main of light, Crawls to maturity, wherewith being crown’d, Crooked elipses ’gainst his glory fight, And Time that gave doth now his gift confound.
Time captures the vibrancy of youth, revealing the contrasts in beauty's appearance It consumes the unique wonders of nature's reality, reminding us that nothing endures without eventually facing its inevitable decline.
And yet to times in hope my verse shall stand, Praising thy worth, despite his cruel hand.
This sonnet explores the passage of time and its impact on human life, likening minutes to waves on a pebbled shore, each replacing the last in a steady rhythm It portrays life’s journey through the metaphor of the sun, which rises at birth, reaches maturity at noon, and is ultimately overshadowed by “crooked eclipses” that challenge its brilliance Time is further depicted as a destructive force that erodes youth and beauty, yet the speaker asserts that his verse will endure, celebrating the beloved's worth despite the relentless grip of time.
As the seasons change, you can see in me the time of year when the trees bear few or no yellow leaves, their branches trembling in the cold These bare, ruined branches once echoed with the melodies of sweet birds that sang here.
In me thou seest the twilight of such day
As after sunset fadeth in the west, Which by and by black night doth take away, Death’s second self, that seals up all in rest.
In me thou see’st the glowing of such fire That on the ashes of his youth doth lie,
As the death-bed whereon it must expire Consumed with that which it was nourish’d by.
This thou perceivest, which makes thy love more strong,
To love that well which thou must leave ere long.
In this poem, the speaker uses metaphors to reflect on his old age, likening it to late autumn, where leaves have fallen, and the cold sets in He further compares his aging to twilight, as the light fades into darkness, symbolizing the inevitability of death Additionally, he describes himself as the dying embers of a fire resting on the ashes of his youth, signifying the end of vitality as he approaches his final moments Ultimately, he urges the young man to recognize these truths, emphasizing that their love must grow stronger in the face of the impending separation brought by time.