Shakespeare Vs Donne
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I. Opening Paragraph
1. elements in British poetry remain constant
2. William Shakespeare and John Donne
a. common themes of love and adoration
3. environment and customs affect a poets work
II. Renaissance and 18th Century Comparisons
Renaissance
drinking, gambling, gossip, theater
Puritanism, a Calvinist attitude within the Anglican church
issued a fine for not conforming to the established religion; not going to Protestant services
betrothal: the two people join hands. Man gives her a ring to be worn on the right hand. Changes to the left at the wedding. Seal the contract with a kiss. Can be terminated by mutual consent.
marriage: considered foolish to marry for love. Marry young, have children.
wedding customs: crying the banns, the bridal procession, contract, dowry, jointure, rings
18th Century
church was a necessary part of the government of England
rapid inflation, loss of real wages
rising middle class/falling nobles
glorious revolution
king and parliament would work together – limited monarcy: kings recognizing prerogatives of parliament, but also rights of people as a whole: Bill of Rights of 1689
III. William Shakespeare
born in April, 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
parents: John and Mary Shakespeare
attended Stratford Grammar School
married