The Defense of Poesy: Review

Literature is such beautiful work. From literature we can understand lifestyles of the past, historically documented through the printed word. We can have a better understanding of conveyed emotion and expression; as well as placing ourselves in the story to empathize with characters and the dynamic situations.

Sir Philip Sidney's The Defense of Poesy conveys his viewpoints of the significance of literature, specifically verse and prose. He argues emphatically on the side of literature as being essential and highly important.(955) "Poesy therefore is an art of imitation, ...that is to say, a representing, counterfeiting, or figuring forth -- to speak metaphorically, a speaking picture -- with this end, to teach and delight" (958).

I specifically enjoy his description of David's Psalms as a divine poem; and handling of his poetical prophecy (956). I enjoy the book of Psalms from the Bible very much so. I find value in the heart-wrenching truth and reality of emotions expressed by David in these works, which always keeps me going back for more. In the regard of Sir Philip Sidney's definition of poesy, I have to say that David's Psalms fit the definition well and always inspire me with far more than delight.

"I conclude, therefore, that he excelleth history, not only in furnishing the mind with knowledge, but in setting it forward to that which deserveth to be called and accounted good, which setting forward, and moving to well-doing" (962). It is proven that literature helps us in present day understand the times that the piece was written. Descriptions of their home environment, their attitudes, opinions, and how they felt about it open up a plethora of opportunities for us to evaluate the life of the past through the artwork of literature. Through expression we understand their feelings about situations in their lifetime, which allow us to discern portions of the entire picture -- and perhaps even fill in details. The Diary of Ann Frank, is an excellent example of literature that is utilized as expression of historical times and allows readers to explore the time period through the emotions of a girl in the time period of WWII.

It is clear that Sir Philip Sidney had great passion for literature. He says that poetry is full of mysteries (974), modern and ancient poesy (973), and that poetry can "in the cloudy knowledge of mankind" (968) escape many lies. It is amazing the lifeblood that literature carries with it and the absolute power that it can express to individuals within the time period it was written, as well as afterwards.

I have to say that I agree with Sir Philip Sidney's overall wisdom in regards to his passion for literature. He has made an astounding argument for literature's importance to enlighten, entertain, and educate others. Not everyone can appreciate the fine art of literature and its expression -- however I believe Sir Sidney provided well-rounded viewpoints as stated above that clarify his beliefs of the value of literature in the lives of others.

"It is not an art of lies, but of true doctrine; not of effeminateness, but of notable stirring of courage; not of abusing man's wit, but of strengthening man's wit; not banished, but honored.(968).

Works Cited

David, Alfred. The Norton Anthology, English Literature (Volume A.). New York: WW Norton and Company. 2006.