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Sir Philip Sidney's Sonnet 7, part of the sixteenth-century sonnet sequence Astrophel and Stella, intricately delves into the theme of unattainable love. This poignant lament is presented by Astrophel, deeply enamored with Stella, whose unavailability stems from her marital commitment to another man.
The sonnet opens with Astrophel's vivid description of Stella's black eyes, emphasizing their radiant brilliance and captivating allure. The choice of the word "beamy" to describe Stella's black eyes creates an immediate visual contrast, setting the stage for the exploration of color symbolism.
The lines "Or did she else that sober hue devise,/ In object best to knit and strength our sight," suggest that Stella may deliberately choose to wear black, using it as an object to enhance her visibility amidst various shades and light (ll. 5-6).
The juxtaposition of "beamy black" against "luster shades and light" underscores Sidney's exploration of unconventional beauty standards, challenging the traditional association of brightness with attractiveness.
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Here, black becomes the source of beauty, making Stella stand out amidst the myriad of shades. The ensuing lines further elaborate on this contrast, questioning the impact of revealing Stella's eyes without any veil. Astrophel contemplates whether the unobscured brilliance of her eyes would be overwhelming rather than delightful, invoking imagery of the sun's dazzling effect (ll. 7-8).
As the sonnet progresses, Astrophel attributes a miraculous power to Stella, highlighting how she transforms the contrary nature of black beauty into a source from which all other beauties flow (ll. 9-11).
The poet presents Stella's ability to make black a symbol of extraordinary allure, challenging conventional perceptions and celebrating the uniqueness of her aesthetic choices.
The concluding lines of the sonnet unveil a poignant layer in Astrophel's emotional landscape. It is suggested that Stella may possess some level of awareness or even reciprocation of Astrophel's feelings. The use of "her minding Love" (ll. 12) implies a consideration or acknowledgment of Astrophel's love. Furthermore, Stella's choice to wear black as her mourning weed (ll. 13) to honor those who have bled for her, symbolizes the emotional deaths of the men who have loved her but remained unfulfilled in their desires (ll. 14).
While Sonnet 7 depicts Astrophel's longing for Stella and the inherent challenges of unrequited love, it echoes broader themes found in other romantic sonnets. Similar sentiments of unattainable love are explored in Wyatt's "Whoso List to Hunt" and Marlowe's "The Passionate Shepherd to His Love." These sonnets collectively unravel the complexities of desire, portraying the emotional toll and tribulations that accompany the pursuit of love that remains just beyond reach.
Sidney's Sonnet 7, with its nuanced exploration of color symbolism, unconventional beauty, and unattainable love, contributes to the rich tapestry of the sonnet sequence Astrophel and Stella. It not only provides a glimpse into Astrophel's emotional turmoil but also serves as a reflection of the broader human experience of yearning for the seemingly unattainable.
Sir Philip Sidney's Sonnet 7 masterfully navigates the intricate terrain of unattainable love, employing vivid imagery and symbolic elements. The sonnet's exploration of Stella's black eyes, their contrast against traditional beauty standards, and the suggestion of reciprocal feelings deepen the emotional resonance of Astrophel's plight. As a timeless piece within Astrophel and Stella, Sonnet 7 invites readers to reflect on the universal themes of desire, longing, and the complexities inherent in the pursuit of love that remains forever just out of reach.
Sidney's Exploration of Unattainable Love in Sonnet 7. (2016, Jul 04). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/love-and-relationship-in-sir-philip-sidneys-sonnet-essay
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