What is Shakespeare's Purpose in writing Sonnet 130?
Shakespeare's purpose in writing Sonnet 130 is to challenge and subvert the conventional ideals of beauty and love that were prevalent during his time.
Unlike typical sonnets that idealize the beloved, Shakespeare's Sonnet 130 goes against the poetic conventions by presenting a realistic and sometimes humorous description of his mistress's physical appearance. He intentionally contrasts her with the traditional descriptions of beauty and acknowledges her imperfections, such as her "dun" (dark) complexion, "wires" for hair, and her breath that "reeks."
By doing so, Shakespeare aims to reject the false and exaggerated comparisons that were often made by other poets. He challenges the idea that love should be based solely on appearances or superficial qualities, and instead, emphasizes the true and genuine affection he has for his mistress.
Furthermore, Shakespeare's purpose also extends to highlighting the power of his words to defy societal norms and the traditional expectations set for love sonnets. He uses irony and satire to show that true love should not be confined to societal expectations or idealized beauty standards, but rather should be based on real, human connections and appreciation for one another.
Ultimately, Shakespeare's purpose in writing Sonnet 130 is to emphasize the genuine nature of his love, challenge social conventions, and present a more realistic and relatable view of love and beauty.