William Shakespeare and John Donne: Stages of the Soul in Early Modern English Poetry

This study analyzes the concepts and representations of the soul in the poetry of William Shakespeare and John Donne, showing how it becomes a linking element between the genres of poetry and drama. It offers a new reading of the poems as staged dialogues within the soul, contributing to research on the soliloquy and concepts of inwardness during the early modern period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate concepts and representations of the soul in the poetry of William Shakespeare and John Donne, exploring the profound
mesmerizing connection between these two literary genres. Through a meticulous analysis, it unveils how the soul becomes a vital bridge, seamlessly linking poetry and drama, and transforming poetry into a dramatic spectacle whenever its essence takes center stage. This captivating double movement is evident in Shakespeare's renowned masterpiece, The Rape of Lucrece, and Donne's profound Holy Sonnets. Within these texts, a profound interplay between interiority and performance, psychology and religious self-care, emerges, serving as the key to unlocking the intricacies of early modern drama and its distinctive evolution of the soliloquy. By examining these poems through various lenses, the study presents a fresh and insightful interpretation, viewing them as staged dialogues within the soul. This groundbreaking research not only contributes to our understanding of the soliloquy but also sheds light on the profound concepts of inwardness prevalent during the early modern period. With its engaging prose and scholarly approach, this book is a valuable resource for readers engaged in the study of early modern literature and culture.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 235 x 162 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526133298