Edmund Spenser's 'Prothalamion' Poem Analysis

Prothalamion

Edmund Spenser's "Prothalamion" is a poem that celebrates the wedding of Lord Grey de Wilton and his bride, Lady Jane Dudley. The poem is notable for its praise of Queen Elizabeth I and its exploration of the relationship between heroic and commercial values.

Historical Context

"Prothalamion" was published in 1596 as part of a collection of Spenser's shorter poems. The poem is set on the River Thames, which was a significant commercial hub at the time. Spenser uses the setting to explore the tension between heroic and commercial values, which was a relevant theme in the context of the ongoing transition from feudalism to capitalism in England.

Poetic Structure

The poem is structured as a series of stanzas, each ending with a refrain that emphasizes the importance of the wedding and the blessings of marriage. The refrain also contains a contrast between the first line, which is typically iambic, and the second line, which features a string of spondees that is arrested by the word "softly".

Themes

Heroic and Commercial Values

One of the main themes of "Prothalamion" is the conflict between heroic and commercial values, as exemplified by the character of Mammon in Spenser's "The Faerie Queene." Spenser uses this contrast to highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between the two, suggesting that they are not mutually exclusive.

Queen Elizabeth I

The poem also contains several references to Queen Elizabeth I, who was a significant figure in English society at the time. Spenser praises her as a powerful and wise ruler, emphasizing her role in protecting and guiding her people.

Marriage

"Prothalamion" is ultimately a celebration of marriage, with the wedding of Lord Grey de Wilton and Lady Jane Dudley serving as a symbol of the unity and harmony that can be achieved through love and commitment.

Influence

"Prothalamion" has had a significant impact on English literature, particularly in the realm of pastoral poetry. Its exploration of the tensions between heroic and commercial values has been seen as a forerunner to the more complex treatments of these themes in later works, such as John Milton's "Lycidas" and William Wordsworth's "The Prelude".

Conclusion

Edmund Spenser's "Prothalamion" is a rich and complex poem that explores the tensions between heroic and commercial values, celebrates the power and wisdom of Queen Elizabeth I, and offers a reflection on the importance of marriage. Its enduring influence on English literature attests to its lasting contribution to the literary canon.