Understanding the poem ‘Sonnet 29’ by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
I can explain how Barrett Browning presents passion within a relationship.
Understanding the poem ‘Sonnet 29’ by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
I can explain how Barrett Browning presents passion within a relationship.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Barrett Browning conveys her overwhelming wish to be reunited with her love.
- Barrett Browning describes a relationship which although emotionally close, is physically distant.
- Barrett Browning describes how her thoughts of her lover sometimes obscure and corrupt her reality.
- The poem is partially autobiographical, written during her courtship with Robert Browning, who later became her husband.
- Barrett Browning's life experiences suggest she had positive views about the power of love.
Common misconception
In this poem, the speaker mourns for their lover after they have died.
This could be a valid interpretation but there is no evidence to suggest the lover is definitely dead. In fact, the volta in L.9 has the speaker demand he return which implies that there is a chance they could be reunited with one another.
Keywords
Overwhelming - causing a strong emotional or physical response.
Sacrifice - giving up something valuable for a higher purpose, often involving personal loss or hardship.
Obscure - lacks clarity, not easily understood; kept from sight, concealed.
Corrupt - dishonest behaviour, typically for personal gain or to influence others.
Courtship - the process of getting to know a romantic partner before establishing a romantic relationship.
Equipment
You will need access to the poem 'Sonnet 29 - 'I think of thee!' by Elizabeth Barrett Browning. This can be found in the AQA Love and Relationships Poetry Anthology.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sexual content
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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