The Figure of the Poet in the Poems of Spenser

Abstract

<p>This thesis explores the function of the poet in four of Spenser's major poems: The Shepheardes Calender, The Faerie Queene, Epithalamion, and Prothalamion. In Chapter One, The Shepheardes Calender is discussed in terms of the poet Colin Clout who is Spenser's surrogate throughout this poem. Chapter Two of the thesis explores Books I-IV of The Faerie Queene in terms of its demonic enchanters who create social disharmony and function in opposition to the poet figure. Chapter Three focuses on Book VI of The Faerie Queene and Calidore's quest for courtesy is discussed in relation to the developing poetics of the poet. Epithalamion and Prothalamion are examined in the final chapter of this thesis, and the poet's effectiveness is evaluated.</p>