To his Coy Mistress -- Micheal Marvell Flashcards
(15 cards)
“Had we but world enough, and time”
Introduces false gentleness in a persuasive argument for sex — like Rochester’s plea to Jane to live as his mistress.
How does time shape love here?
Time is an enemy; love must be acted on fast. In contrast, Brontë presents love as worth waiting and suffering for.
Dramatic monologue impact?
The male voice dominates, using logic and wit to seduce. Jane’s narrative, however, is reflective and morally autonomous.
Tone of the speaker?
Witty, urgent, slightly mocking. Contrasts with Jane’s seriousness and inner conflict over passion vs. principle.
AO3: Metaphysical poetry and seduction
Marvell’s speaker reflects male intellectual superiority. Brontë empowers her female protagonist to resist this rhetoric.
How do both texts treat sexual temptation?
Marvell encourages it; Brontë challenges it. Jane refuses Rochester’s invitation to sin — showing moral agency.
Who holds power in the relationship?
The male in Marvell. Jane, however, reclaims emotional and ethical power in her relationships.
What imagery dominates?
Violent, sensual metaphors (“tear our pleasures”) contrast Jane’s preference for self-respect over indulgence.
“Marvell’s speaker manipulates under the guise of love.”
Supports feminist readings; Brontë creates a female who sees through male manipulation and asserts her terms.
What idea does the poem open with?
“Had we but world enough, and time.”
What example of exaggerated courtship is given?
“Love you ten years before the Flood, / And you should, if you please, refuse / Till the conversion of the Jews.”
What warning does the poet give about time?
“But at my back I always hear / Time’s wingèd chariot hurrying near.”
How is death used to pressure action?
“The grave’s a fine and private place, / But none, I think, do there embrace.”
What sensual image urges seizing the moment?
Now let us sport us while we may, / And now, like amorous birds of prey.”
What metaphor shows urgency and passion?
“Thus, though we cannot make our sun / Stand still, yet we will make him run.”
