The Faerie Queene
Poetry
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Edmund Spenser
The Faerie Queene Poem
from The Faerie Queene: Book I, Canto I
By Edmund Spenser
Lo I the man, whose Muse whilome did maske,
As time her taught in lowly Shepheards weeds,
Am now enforst a far unfitter taske,
For trumpets sterne to chaunge mine Oaten reeds,
And sing of Knights and Ladies gentle deeds;
Whose prayses having slept in silence long,
Me, all too meane, the sacred Muse areeds
To blazon broad emongst her learned...
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The Faerie Queene Characters
Redcrosse Knight: He is the hero of Book I, representing Holiness. He is a brave but inexperienced knight. He wears armor with a blood-red cross. It symbolizes his faith. He serves the Faerie Queene and fights monsters like Error. Though strong, he is easily tricked by Archimago. His journey tests his faith and virtue. He travels with Una, who guides him. His real name is later revealed to be St....
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The Faerie Queene Summary
The Poem Begins with an Epic and Religious Purpose: The poem begins with a “proem,” or short introduction, at the start of Book I. This proem provides an overview of the book's content. It says that Book I contains “The Legend of the Knight of the Red Crosse, or Holiness.” The poet says the Muse has asked him to tell the stories of knights and ladies in Faerie Land. Though he feels he is not good...
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The Faerie Queene Themes
Good Vs. Evil: This canto portrays the ongoing struggle between good and evil. The Red Cross Knight stands for Holiness, while the monster Error stands for sin and falsehood. Their fight in the dark cave is not just physical; it is also psychological. It shows how truth must fight lies. Error uses fear and poison. However, the knight relies on faith and strength. He wins only when he listens to La...
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The Faerie Queene Quotations
“But on his brest a bloudie Crosse he bore”
Explanation: The knight wore a red cross on his chest. It was a symbol of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. It also showed that the knight was on a holy mission.
“So pure an innocent, as that same lambe.”
Explanation: Lady Una is compared to a little lamb. Like a lamb, she is pure, gentle, and without any sin.
“A monster vile, whom God and man does hate:”
Exp...
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Notes
Explore 21 detailed notes related to The Faerie Queene. Each note provides in-depth analysis, explanations, and critical insights.