Sonnet 130 by Willian Shakespeare Questions Answers
Very Short Answer Questions
Who is the speaker addressing in Sonnet 130?
The speaker is addressing his mistress.
What does the poet compare his mistress’ eyes to?
The poet compares his mistress’ eyes to the sun.
How does the poet describe the color of his mistress’ lips?
The poet describes the color of his mistress’ lips as less red than coral.
What color does the poet say his mistress’ breasts are?
The poet says his mistress’ breasts are dun, a dull brownish color.
What does the poet compare his mistress’ hair to?
The poet compares his mistress’ hair to black wires.
What kind of roses does the poet claim not to see in his mistress’ cheeks?
The poet claims not to see damasked roses (roses with mixed red and white colors) in his mistress’ cheeks.
What is the poet’s attitude towards the scent of his mistress’ breath?
The poet is critical, suggesting the scent is less delightful.
What does the poet enjoy hearing from his mistress?
The poet enjoys hearing his mistress speak.
How does the poet describe the sound of music in comparison to his mistress’ voice?
The poet suggests that music has a far more pleasing sound.
What goddess does the poet claim he has never seen go?
The poet claims he has never seen a goddess go.
What does the poet say about his mistress when she walks?
The poet says that when his mistress walks, she treads on the ground.
What does the poet claim about the rarity of his love in the final couplet?
The poet claims that his love is as rare as any love that has been falsely compared.
What is the overall tone of Sonnet 130?
The overall tone of Sonnet 130 is satirical and realistic.
How does the poet use humor in the sonnet?
The poet uses humor by subverting traditional expectations and presenting a more realistic, unconventional description of his mistress.
What is the central theme of Sonnet 130?
The central theme is the genuine and unconventional nature of true love.
How does the poet challenge traditional love poetry?
The poet challenges traditional love poetry by rejecting idealized comparisons and presenting a more honest, down-to-earth portrayal of his mistress.
What word does the poet use to admit or acknowledge certain facts?
The poet uses the word “Grant” to admit or acknowledge certain facts.
What color is associated with coral in the poem?
Coral is associated with the color red in the poem.
What does the poet claim he has never seen a goddess do?
The poet claims he has never seen a goddess go (walk).
What does the poet assert about his love in the final lines?
In the final lines, the poet asserts that his love is as rare as any love that has been falsely compared.
Short Answer Questions
What is the tone of Sonnet 130?
The tone of Sonnet 130 is satirical and realistic. The poet uses humor and irony to challenge conventional expressions of love and beauty.
How does Shakespeare describe his mistress’s physical attributes in the poem?
Shakespeare describes his mistress in a realistic and unconventional manner, highlighting her imperfections and dismissing traditional comparisons. He rejects idealized descriptions of beauty found in typical love poetry.
What is the central theme of Sonnet 130?
The central theme of Sonnet 130 is the genuine and unconventional nature of true love. Shakespeare emphasizes that love should transcend superficial beauty and that real beauty lies in embracing the individuality and uniqueness of his mistress.
In what ways does the poet challenge traditional love poetry in Sonnet 130?
The poet challenges traditional love poetry by rejecting idealized comparisons and exaggerated praises. Instead, he portrays his mistress realistically, using everyday imagery and emphasizing the authenticity of his love.
How does Shakespeare use humor in Sonnet 130?
Shakespeare employs humor through the contrast between traditional romantic clichés and the realistic descriptions of his mistress. The exaggeration of flaws and the unexpected turns in imagery create a humorous effect.
What is the significance of the final couplet in Sonnet 130?
In the final couplet, Shakespeare asserts the rarity of his love despite rejecting false comparisons. He emphasizes that his love is genuine and unique, standing apart from the conventional ideals presented in other poems.
How does Sonnet 130 contribute to the overall themes in Shakespeare’s body of work?
Sonnet 130 aligns with Shakespeare’s exploration of the complexities of human emotions and challenges conventional notions of love and beauty. It reflects his broader theme of presenting a more authentic and nuanced view of relationships.
What is the poet’s attitude towards traditional comparisons of beauty in Sonnet 130?
The poet adopts a critical and dismissive attitude towards traditional comparisons of beauty. He rejects the common idealized descriptions found in love poetry, opting for a more honest and down-to-earth portrayal of his mistress.
How does the poet convey the idea that true love goes beyond physical appearance in Sonnet 130?
The poet conveys the idea that true love goes beyond physical appearance by focusing on the unique qualities and individuality of his mistress. He suggests that real beauty lies in accepting and appreciating the genuine, unadorned aspects of his beloved.
What role does irony play in Sonnet 130?
Irony is prevalent in Sonnet 130 as the poet uses it to subvert traditional expectations. While he begins by describing his mistress in unflattering terms, the concluding lines reveal the sincerity of his love, turning the expected mockery into a declaration of genuine affection.
