Sonnet 11, Lady Mary Wroth: Poem, Summary, Analysis & Themes

Sonnet 11, Lady Mary Wroth: Poem, Summary, Analysis & Themes
Lady Mary Wroth's "Sonnet II" is a reflection on the transformative power and purity of true love. A prominent poet of the English Renaissance, Wroth is known for her "Pamphilia to Amphilanthus," a collection of sonnets exploring love, fidelity, and emotional depth. In this sonnet, she portrays love as a guiding force, free from idle fantasies and rooted in virtue. The poem exemplifies the Petrarchan tradition, combining introspection with vivid imagery to celebrate love's spiritual and moral dimensions. Sonnet II by Lady Mary Wroth Is to leave all, and take the threed of Love, Which line straite leades unto the soules content, Where choice delights with pleasures wings doe move, And idle fant'sie neuer roome had lent. When chaste thoughts guide us, then our minds are bent To take that good which ills from us remove: Light of true love brings fruite which none repent; But constant Lovers seeke and wish to prove. Love is the shining Starre of blessings …

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