Overview
The lecture covers John Donne's poem "The Canonization," including an introduction, line-by-line explanation, and discussion of its metaphysical qualities.
Introduction to "The Canonization"
- "Canonization" refers to the process of declaring someone a saint in the Catholic Church.
- Written during the Elizabethan age, when Catholics were persecuted in England.
- John Donne’s brother died in prison for sheltering a Catholic priest.
- The poem was published in 1633 in Donne’s collection "Songs and Sonnets."
- The poem consists of five stanzas, each with nine lines, and follows the rhyme scheme ABBA CCCAA.
Line-by-Line Explanation
- The poet asks to be left alone to love, dismissing criticism of his relationship.
- He tells the addressee to focus on his own life, like pursuing a career or observing people of status.
- The poet asserts that his love harms no one and questions who could be hurt by it.
- He lists disasters (floods, plagues, wars) to show love does not cause such harm.
- Donne uses metaphors like moths, candles, eagle, dove, and phoenix to describe the lovers’ unity and resilience.
- The lovers' story may not be recorded in history, but their love will live on in poetry and inspire others.
- People will view the lovers as saints of love and invoke them for romantic blessing.
- Their love becomes a model, epitomizing true love for others.
"The Canonization" as a Metaphysical Poem
- The poem is an example of metaphysical poetry due to its use of complex conceits and metaphors.
- It features sudden openings, dramatic situations, and passionate monologue.
- Conceits like the phoenix, moths, and candle enrich the poem’s meaning.
- References allude to medieval philosophy and spiritual transformation through love.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Canonization — process of declaring someone a saint in the Catholic Church.
- Conceit — an elaborate, extended metaphor common in metaphysical poetry.
- Hermitage — a place where a hermit lives; here used as a metaphor for a secluded love.
- Epitomize — to be a perfect example of something.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the poem and its metaphors.
- Study the features of metaphysical poetry.
- Prepare for discussion on how metaphysical conceits shape meaning in the poem.