INTRODUCTION
Background of the study
Language serves as a vital tool for interaction and emotional expression among individuals in everyday life, playing a crucial role in communication within social relationships This perspective is supported by Lindsay and Knight (2010, p.27).
―Language is a tool we use to communicate with other people People can encode against what they want to say, which consists of various components‖
Language serves as a medium for communication and interaction, encompassing both speech and writing It varies across different regions, reflecting the unique customs and traditions of each culture Through specific styles of writing and speaking, individuals express their ideas, feelings, and concepts using sounds, words, movements, and symbols Additionally, language incorporates symbols and rules that are applicable in various contexts, including computer and electronic devices.
Language is a crucial element of communication, serving as a vital tool for interaction among nations globally It exists in numerous forms and variations across different regions English, in particular, holds significant importance as an international language, deeply intertwined with various aspects of human life.
Humans excel in the animal kingdom due to their unique ability to adapt and analyze their surroundings, which drives civilization forward This capability is a divine gift, as they possess advanced cognitive functions Their insatiable curiosity leads them to explore and understand the world around them Considered a reflection of perfection, humans are endowed with numerous blessings that set them apart from other species Their distinctiveness lies in their capacity to articulate thoughts and emotions, which can be expressed in various forms.
Literature encompasses a wide range of creative works, including plays and poems, as defined by experts like Diana Lea and Jennifer Bradbery (2003) It serves as a powerful medium for expressing the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual concerns of humanity, as noted in The Encyclopedia of America Literature is fundamentally tied to human communication, whether through direct verbal exchange or indirect means such as letters and digital devices Essentially, any written or spoken expression can be considered literature, regardless of its content, reflecting the diverse ways humans engage with this art form throughout their lives.
―Literature is the knowledge earned by human beings that arise conduct and is used to reflect and express experience‖(Moleong, 2000, p.13) Widdowson
Literature enhances language awareness by encouraging learners to analyze complex or nonstandard language examples found in literary texts, thereby increasing their understanding of language norms.
According to ancient Greek tradition, poetry is categorized into three main types: lyric, dramatic, and epic Lyric poetry focuses on the expression of deep emotions such as love, hate, pity, and fear, emphasizing the power of language In contrast, dramatic poetry relies on action, plot, and human characters, minimizing the need for expressive language Epic poetry, on the other hand, narrates tales through characters and actions, highlighting the narrator's skill and creativity over the suggestive power of words.
According to Burgess (1950), the lyrical poem remains the sole type of poem that endures To effectively analyze a poem in academic work, it is essential to incorporate at least two interrelated elements, such as tone and metaphor or figurative language, to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Figurative language is a distinctive linguistic style that conveys meaning through unconventional expressions that require interpretation It enhances the aesthetic quality of literary works, capturing readers' interest Sonnets, as a form of poetry, reflect human experiences and are presented through various mediums, including live performances, books, and screen adaptations (Letwin et al., 2008, p xii).
Figurative language plays a significant role in poetry, but rhyme is equally important as it relates closely to sound Rhyme involves the repetition of the final sounds in two or more lines, highlighting a shared perspective, as noted by Jones, who aligns with Siswantoro's views on this matter (Jones, 1968, p 97).
The theme in poetry reflects the artist's perspective on the subject matter rather than merely the subject itself According to Letwin (2008), understanding the theme involves recognizing the poet's viewpoint, which shapes the narrative and answers essential questions within the plot.
―what is happening?‖ a theme answers the question of ―what does it mean?‖
Based on the above explanations, the author decides to choose the study entitled ―Linguistic Characteristics Of The Sonnets By William Shakespeare.‖
Aims of the study
According to the statement above, the aims of the study are that the author formulates:
1 To identify the seven types of figurative language found in William Shakespeare's sonnets
2 To identify themes used in William Shakespeare's sonnets
3 To identify the messages are expressed by the figurative languages in the William Shakespeare’s sonnets
Significance of the study
The significance of the study theoretically is the result of this research which can provide several benefits The benefits that could be described from this research include:
The research will include references to academic institutions focused on literature analysis, exploring themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language These insights may serve as a valuable comparison for future studies, particularly for literary readers.
This study enhances the understanding of literature by focusing on the interpretation of meaning and figurative language in sonnets and poems It enables readers and students to deepen their knowledge of English reading processes, particularly in recognizing themes, rhyme schemes, and various types of figurative language in sonnets, which can be beneficial in their daily lives.
This research aims to enhance readers' understanding and appreciation of sonnets, allowing them to animate the stories within these poetic forms By analyzing sonnets, the study seeks to improve readers' comprehension of figurative language, enabling them to apply the insights gained to their daily lives Additionally, the research provides valuable information about life in general, enriching the overall experience of engaging with sonnets.
2) Academic benefits a) For literary scholars
This study enhances understanding and expertise in English literature, focusing on language research that analyzes literary works and figurative language, particularly in sonnets It also serves as a valuable resource for future researchers in the field.
The study can be good for people who have favorite of studying English literature, particularly linguistic characteristics in the sonnets.
Reasearch questions
Based on the above mentioned research background, this study can be identified by four questions as follows:
(1) What are linguistic characteristics used in the first 100 sonnets by
-What are the seven types of figurative languages used in the first 100 sonnets?
-What is the figurative language found dominantly in the first 100 sonnets? -What are rhyme schemes and themes in the first 100 sonnets?
(2) How are the messages expressed through figurative languages in the first
Overview of the study
In addition to the statement of authorship, acknowledgments, abstract,
Chapter 1 is the Introduction; this chapter is designed to demonstrate the background of the study, identification of the study, subjects of the study, Research questions, aims of the study and objectives, significance of the study, and the structure of the paper
Chapter 2 is the Literature review, in which the author presents the studies of linguistic characteristics in literature as well as in poems Additionally, studies of William Shakespeare and his sonnets are also included
Chapter 3 is the Methodology This chapter includes Research Design,
Research Methods, Research Population and Sample, and Research Instruments Procedures for Data Collection and Analysis
Chapter 4 is Research Findings and Discussions The author will discuss and analyze the types of figurative language based on the expressions in Shakespeare’s sonnets This article’s main analyses of the target domains in Shakespeare’s sonnets are sorts of figurative language, themes, and rhyme schemes
Chapter 5 is the Conclusions and Recommendations of the thesis, which involves the summary of the thesis, Recommendations for further studies, and the limitations of the study
This study uniquely explores seven types of figurative language, rhyme schemes, and seven themes in sonnets, filling a gap in research at Thu Dau Mot University While numerous studies have examined the linguistic characteristics of literary works, this investigation is the first of its kind at the institution, aiming to provide new insights into the subject.
This article explores seven types of figurative language, various rhyme schemes, and seven key themes within sonnets, while also providing essential background information Additionally, it offers valuable insights and messages aimed at assisting future researchers and readers in enhancing their understanding and enriching their lives with useful references.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Previous studies
Numerous researchers have explored literature, particularly poetry, including Marina Guainía Era Em ham (2010) and John Khadijah (2004) Marina's study, titled "Loneliness in Emily Dickinson Poems," delves into various figurative languages such as simile, metaphor, personification, apostrophe, imagery, symbol, irony, and paradox, while also examining the theory of loneliness Meanwhile, John focused on the analysis of figurative languages in Khaled's poems, concluding that language serves as a medium for expressing the writer's feelings, passions, and emotions stemming from their sensations.
John identified three key genres of language—poetry, drama, and prose—to enhance readers' understanding of literature Studying poetry is particularly vital for language learners, as it significantly improves their knowledge and competence in literary terms.
Several researchers have examined the poem, focusing particularly on its figurative language Notably, Din Siti Khadijah (2010) conducted a study on literature, specifically analyzing the figurative language used in a song.
The analysis of figurative language in Nirvana's song reveals the use of various literary devices, including simile, metaphor, personification, apostrophe, imagery, symbol, irony, paradox, pun, and hyperbole These figurative languages convey implied meanings, as they rely on connotative rather than literal interpretations of words.
Ita Rosyanti (2010) conducted research titled "A Study On 36 Figurative Languages In Celine Dion’s Song," which explored various types of figurative language Her findings revealed a diverse range of figurative expressions, including simile, metaphor, epithet, eponym, hyperbole, oxymoron, paradox, personification, pun, and synecdoche, as well as rhetorical terms like aposiopesis Among these, the metaphor stands out as the most fundamental figure of speech, serving to illustrate analogies.
Several researchers over the years have focused on similar topics as this study, examining poems and the various types of figurative language employed in them, as well as in other literary forms like novels.
Definitions of literature
There are plenty of definitions of literature mentioned by the experts of languages and several reliable dictionaries
Diana Lea and Jennifer Bradbery (2021) define literature as encompassing works, plays, and poems, highlighting its value in human communication Literature is not limited to traditional forms; it includes any written or spoken expression, whether intentional or not This broad perspective emphasizes that literature is fundamentally tied to the ways humans engage and exchange ideas, whether through letters, cell phones, or other mediums.
According to Kennedy and Gioia (1998), literature encompasses both written and spoken material, ranging from creative writing to technical and scientific texts Typically, the term is associated with works of creative imagination, which include poetry, drama, fiction, and nonfiction.
Aminuddin (1995) asserts that poetry is a form of literature that employs words as a medium to create illusions and evoke imagination, similar to how paintings utilize lines and colors to convey the artist's ideas.
According to DiYanni (2002), as noted by Aminuddin (1995), literature aims to engage students in both reading and analysis It can be categorized into three main classifications: "imitative," "expressive," and "affective" theories, which highlight the diverse nature of literature.
Functions of literature
Literature plays a crucial role in learning English, as it is integral to many people's lives It not only provides opportunities for personal enlightenment but also helps individuals expand their horizons and perspectives in the English language.
Travis (2000) echoes Conroy's perspective, emphasizing that literature revolves around the exploration and inspiration of ideas The reactions elicited by literature are integral to the English learning process, offering valuable lessons to readers He highlights that literature not only aids in understanding English texts but also evokes emotions and challenges existing notions in the pursuit of truth While literature is a crucial component of modern language, many readers may not have formally studied it in the language they are engaging with.
Poetry stands out among the various branches of literature due to its profound reliance on the power and suggestiveness of words It is often considered the most literary form, as it utilizes the raw material of literature—words—more extensively than other genres.
Definitions of poetry
There are several different definitions of poetry stated by a few reliable English dictionaries and famous linguists The useful definitions of poetry are quoted below:
John Eastwood (2008) defines poetry as a literary form typically composed of short lines, often featuring rhyme Examples include Burns' poem about a mouse and various love poems Poetry is recognized as a significant genre within literature I personally find joy in reading poetry, which is characterized by its poetic qualities, such as vivid descriptions of scenes, like those found in a country setting In contrast, Diana Lea and Jennifer Bradbery also contribute to the understanding of poetry.
Poetry is defined as a form of writing where words are selected for their sound and the imagery they evoke, rather than solely for their literal meanings Typically, poetry features lines arranged with a consistent rhythm, and it often includes rhyming at the end of these lines.
Poetry is a unique form of language that serves a distinct purpose beyond mere practicality (Horman, 2003) According to Jones (1968), poetry aims to evoke the imagination While prose, such as short stories and novels, conveys truth directly, poetry reveals truth through suggestion, often providing a more enjoyable experience than rational understanding.
In his book "Texts and Contexts: Introducing Literature and Language Study," Beard (2001) highlights that poems, unlike novels, are typically concise and can be read swiftly, allowing for multiple readings He notes that these readings can occur in both private and public settings Additionally, Beard emphasizes that the experience of reading a poem silently differs significantly from reading it aloud, and listening to someone else recite it offers yet another unique impact.
From the several above explanations, it could be concluded that poems are ambiguous languages with multiple meanings Nevertheless, it cannot be done mistakenly to determine meanings in poems.
Elements of poetry
Poems are composed of various essential elements, including rhythm, theme, character, and sound Understanding these components is crucial for students and readers, as it enables them to perceive and differentiate between the distinct elements of a poem One of the key elements is rhythm, which plays a vital role in shaping the overall experience of the poem.
Rhythm is a crucial element in crafting a great poem, as it involves the arrangement of gestures and the sequence of sound repetitions that create dynamic variations It encompasses the fluctuations in speech, such as changes in pitch, length, and intensity Rhythm is inseparable from poetry, as it closely relates to music; without an engaging rhythmic quality, poetry may lose its appeal Readers may struggle to connect with a poem that lacks musicality or find it difficult to grasp its meaning (Attarsemi, 2002, p 120) Additionally, Siswantoro (2002) emphasizes that rhythm consists of sound repetitions that form melodic patterns.
The analysis highlights the importance of rhythm in poetry, as it enhances readers' comprehension of both the meaning and the underlying messages conveyed in the poems.
Letwin et al (2008) assert that character encompasses not just the individuals in a narrative, but more significantly, it represents their true essence, which is unveiled through their actions throughout the story.
A poem comprises two key elements of sound, as outlined by Richards (1986): intrinsic and extrinsic elements The intrinsic element encompasses the core aspects of a poem, including its theme and sense.
2) feeling, 3) tone, and 4) aim; intention A fourth component is intrinsic, which is very closely related to each other The second element is the extrinsic one It is the structure or the method of poetry, a poem different from other literary forms A poem emphasizes diction, imagery, figurative language, rhythm To understand a poem well and clearly, it is essential for several principles and instructions should be applied
Esten (1995) outlines key principles for quickly understanding poetry, including focusing on the title, identifying dominant words, grasping connotative meanings, and uncovering hidden significance Each poem comprises essential elements and conveys a subject matter, often employing figurative language to enhance meaning while preserving aesthetic value Rhetorical meaning, as a figure of speech, plays a crucial role in emphasizing the importance of poems.
Overview of sonnet
William Shakespeare (1609) describes the sonnet as a highly stylized verse form created by Italian Renaissance poets in the 13th century, with the term "sonnet" originating from the Italian word "sonetto," meaning "little song." Each sonnet consists of 14 lines and adheres to a specific rhyme scheme English sonnets are characterized by iambic pentameter, which includes five two-syllable metrical "feet" where the first syllable is unstressed and the second is stressed A sonnet typically explores a single sentiment or idea and often features a "turn" of thought in the latter half, usually occurring at the 9th or 13th line.
The Petrarchan sonnet, named after the Italian poet Petrarch, consists of 14 lines divided into an eight-line octave and a six-line sestet, with the octave following the ABBAABBA rhyme scheme and the sestet employing various patterns such as CDCDCD or CDECDE In this structure, the octave presents a question or problem, while the sestet provides an answer or resolution, marked by a significant shift known as the volta, occurring at the transition between the two sections.
In the 16th century, poets Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey, introduced the sonnet to England English sonnets that adhere to this structure are referred to as Italian or Petrarchan sonnets, regardless of whether they strictly follow the Petrarchan rhyme scheme.
English poets established a unique rhyme scheme featuring three quatrains with independent rhymes followed by a rhyming couplet Edmund Spenser's scheme, ABABBCBCCDCDEE, and Shakespeare's ABABCDCDEFEFGG gained popularity among later poets While some English sonnets adopt a Petrarchan structure with an octave, volta, and sestet, the English rhyme scheme typically develops a question or tension in the first 12 lines, culminating in a resolution in the final couplet Notably, some of Shakespeare's sonnets, like 18, 23, and 29, incorporate a Petrarchan volta in line 9, while others, such as 30 and 55, present a problem followed by a solution Additionally, sonnets 73 and 116 explore distinct yet related ideas in each quatrain, concluding with a final couplet.
Sonnets, rooted in the medieval tradition of courtly love, were typically composed for an idealized ladylove or an admired figure Collections of sonnets dedicated to a specific woman are known as sonnet sequences Notable examples include Petrarch's sonnets to Laura, Sir Philip Sidney's sequence Astrophel and Stella (1591) dedicated to Stella, and Sir Edmund Spenser's Amoretti (1595) written for Elizabeth Boyle, who later became his wife In contrast, Shakespeare's first 126 sonnets are believed to address a male friend, often referred to as the fair youth, while the later sonnets are directed towards a mysterious dark lady.
In the 1590s, sonnet writing became a popular trend among the court elite, primarily for sharing rather than publishing Shakespeare, alongside his contemporaries, circulated handwritten copies among a select group of wealthy, educated individuals He likely composed his sonnets during this period, following the success of his narrative poems, Venus and Adonis (1593) and the Rape of Lucrece (1594) The complete collection of 154 sonnets was published in 1609 by Thomas Thorpe, who also included "A Lover's Complaint," a poem of uncertain authorship, dedicated to "Mr W.H." It is believed that Thorpe published the sonnets without Shakespeare's consent, although scholars debate whether Shakespeare approved the publication and possibly arranged the order of the sonnets The identity of Mr W.H remains a topic of speculation among scholars.
Italian (Petrarchan) sonnet and Shakespearean sonnet
Figure 1 Italian (Petrarchan) and Shakespearean sonnet
(Source: https://www.google.com/searchqshakespearean )
There appear several different definitions of sonnet presented by a few reliable English dictionaries and linguists The definitions of sonnets are useful for studying the thesis
A poem is defined as a 14-line composition featuring ten syllables per line and a specific rhyme scheme, as noted by Diana Lea and Jennifer Bradbery (2021) Similarly, Alison Waters (2012) acknowledges that such poems adhere to a distinct rhyme pattern and structured word arrangement.
A sonnet, as defined by Richard B Sewall (1980), is a lyrical poem consisting of fourteen lines, typically written in iambic pentameter, that focuses on a single significant theme.
Sonnets encompass various elements such as imagery, rhythm, theme, and sound, highlighting their poetic nature This section will focus on an analysis of three key components: themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language.
The other element of the poem that is also important is the theme Edward
A theme in poetry represents the artist's perspective on a subject, as noted by 1968 Letwin (2008) emphasizes that a theme should not be confused with the story's subject matter; rather, it reflects the artist's interpretation While the plot addresses the question of "what is happening?", the theme delves into "what does it mean?".
According to Richard B Sewall (1980), sentences in language serve as messages, possessing a structured organization that transforms them into communicative facts.
Rhyme is fundamentally linked to sound, as noted by Jones (1968), who describes it as the repetition of the final word's sound in multiple lines of poetry, aligning with Siswantoro's views Additionally, Alison Waters (2016) highlights that a rhyme scheme represents a pattern of rhymes within a verse, where each end rhyme sound is denoted by a letter, such as a-b-a-b-c-d-c-d.
The rhyme scheme of a sonnet can be structured as either abab cdcd efef gg or abba cddc effe gg Each of the three quatrains explores a distinct facet of the theme, while the concluding couplet offers a final reflection.
Overview of figurative language
Figurative language encompasses various forms of expression in literature, characterized by the use of figures of speech like metaphors According to McArthur (1992), these rhetorical devices employ words in unique ways to create special effects By utilizing standard words in innovative sequences, figurative language conveys deeper meanings and enhances the overall impact of the text.
Both McArthur and Abrams (1999) emphasize that figures of speech are often seen as poetic, serving a crucial role in language and capital discourses Supporting this perspective, Dian Siti Khadijah (2010) highlights that figurative language conveys implied meanings, as the words employed do not reflect their literal interpretations.
According to Giroux and Williston's theory (1974), figurative language transcends the literal use of words, creating special effects that enhance clarity and add vibrancy to writing This form of expression paints vivid images in the minds of readers, serving as different names for the same concept Additionally, as noted by Jakobson (1996), figurative language possesses a poetic function by emphasizing the message itself and deepening the relationship between signs and their meanings.
Halliday (1996), Jakobson (1996), Bühler (1982), and Evans and Zinken (2006) agree that artistic expressions utilize human symbolic abilities rooted in our conceptual systems Consequently, artistic expression must embody the essence of human experience, particularly through bodily sensations A significant manifestation of art occurs through language, especially in literary forms.
Figurative language employs words or expressions that convey meanings distinct from their literal interpretations, contrasting with literal language, which presents facts straightforwardly This form of language is prevalent in various forms of communication, including daily conversations, newspaper articles, advertisements, novels, and poems, with a notable emphasis on its use in poetry Additionally, figurative language finds its place in prose and nonfiction writing, enriching the text's expressiveness.
Language and literature possess distinct styles, as Aminuddin (2009) notes, where "style" serves as a medium for authors to express ideas through beautiful and harmonious language, evoking intellectual engagement in readers This deviation from normal language use aims for aesthetic appeal, which is intrinsic to literature The stylistic elements in literary language differ significantly from everyday speech, making the study of literary style particularly intriguing.
Endraswara (2003) posits that stylistics is fundamentally connected to the concept of style, defining it as the science of style in language use within literature Additionally, as noted by Nurgiantoro, Abraham emphasizes that style refers to the distinctive pronunciation of language in literary works, highlighting how an author conveys their message.
Stylistics, as defined by Pradobo (2005), is the study of language style, focusing on variations in language use and its complexity in literature It employs linguistic aspects to evaluate literary works Endraswara (2008) further emphasizes that stylistic analysis aims to uncover a common aesthetic goal present in all elements of a literary piece, allowing for a comprehensive discussion of its contents This research is grounded in the belief that literature serves a significant purpose.
Stylistics is a scientific study that evaluates the use of language in literature, highlighting its full potential for empowerment It can be defined as the science of language style, where authors employ language that conveys reflective and connotative meanings The arrangement of sentences showcases variations and harmony, contributing to aesthetic appeal beyond mere shades of meaning Ultimately, the concept of literary style is intricately linked to the broader issue of style within the language itself.
In world literature, numerous linguists have expressed diverse perspectives on figurative language The definitions and theories of figurative language presented here are essential for exploration.
McArthur (1992) defines figurative language as a form of expression where figures of speech, like metaphors, are prevalent He elaborates that these rhetorical devices utilize words in unique ways to create specific effects Essentially, figurative language consists of familiar words arranged by speakers to convey deeper meanings or evoke special effects.
Abrams (1999) supports McArthur's perspective by stating that figures are often seen as inherently poetic, serving to enhance the function of language and playing a crucial role in capital discourses Giroux and Williston further explore this concept.
(1974) mentions that figurative language departs from the straightforward use of words It creates a special effect, clarifies an idea, and makes writing more colourful and forceful
Evans and Zinken (2006) argue that artistic expression utilizes human symbolic abilities rooted in our conceptual systems, emphasizing that it must embody the nature of human experience Similarly, H.B Jassin (2003) asserts that language style involves the careful selection and use of words that align with the intended content.
Endraswara (2008) emphasizes that literary language is a unique form of communication, meticulously crafted to create an aesthetically pleasing style The choice of language is a deliberate decision by the author, reflecting their skill in utilizing stylistic elements Consequently, an author's proficiency in language cultivation enhances the brilliance and depth of their literary work.
Figurative language, or figurative speech, is a distinctive method of conveying thoughts and emotions through written or spoken expression, characterized by the use of words that do not explicitly reveal their true meanings The choice of effective and aesthetically pleasing words is crucial in shaping a language style, heavily influenced by the author Consequently, the language style in literary works varies from one author to another, as each writer brings their unique linguistic style to create an artistic expression in their literature.
Humanism values in literary works
Humanism encompasses a comprehensive set of moral and political perspectives that originate from human experiences rather than supernatural beliefs It emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the needs, abilities, and realities of individuals in order to foster their full development and satisfaction.
John Eastwood (2008) defines humanism value as a belief system based on the principle that people’s spiritual and emotional needs can be satisfied without following a god or religion
A philosophical approach prioritizes the use of reason over religious beliefs in addressing human issues, asserting that the fundamental nature of humanity is inherently good.
Shakespeare’s life and works
William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564, and died on the same date in 1616 He was the eldest son and third child of John Shakespeare and Mary Arden, who came from a prosperous farming family Shakespeare was born and baptized in Stratford-upon-Avon, where his father held multiple municipal positions and worked as a husbandman, with various descriptions including yeoman, glover, butcher, and wool-dealer.
In 1596, despite facing financial difficulties, he applied for a grant of arms, possibly at his son's suggestion, which was granted that same year He received his education at a free grammar school in Stratford around 1585 It has been proposed that he faced prosecution for poaching on Sir Thomas Lucy's property, which later inspired a caricature in his works After spending some time, possibly as a schoolmaster in a nearby village, he arrived in London around 1568, where he may have met Lord Southampton He likely worked in a minor role at one of the two existing theatres in London, The Theatre or The Curtain, and eventually became a member of the Lord Chamberlain’s company of players, performing at the Curtain, the Globe, and later at the Black Friar's Theatre after 1610 He also participated in the original performances of Ben Jonson’s "Every Man in His Humor."
Paul Harvey (1938) writes that Shakespeare’s earliest work as a dramatist probably dates from 1591 and is to be found in the three parts of Henry
VI This, and Shakespeare’s other plays and poems, are the subjects of separate articles in the present book The order and dates assigned to them below are those which Sir EK Chambers thinks most probable, though there is, he states, much conjecture about the dates and even about the order Henry VI was followed by Richard III and The Comedy of Errors in the theatrical season of 1592-3, and by
Titus Androids and The taming of the Shrew in 1593-4 The attribution of
The authorship of "Titus Andronicus" by Shakespeare has been widely debated, leaving his contribution to the play uncertain In 1593 and 1594, Shakespeare published the poems "Venus and Adonis" and "Lucre," both dedicated to Henry Wriothesley, the Earl of Southampton, indicating a close friendship between them during that time.
Shakespeare's Sonnets were published in 1609, although most were composed between 1593 and 1596, with additional pieces written until 1600 Notable works from this period include "Two Gentlemen of Verona," "Love’s Labor’s Lost," and "Romeo and Juliet," which is recognized as Shakespeare's first tragedy, all dating from 1594 to 1595 Additionally, "Richard II" and "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" were created during 1595 to 1596.
Shakespeare’s most perfect essays in comedy, Much Ado About Nothing,
Between 1598 and 1600, Shakespeare wrote notable plays such as *As You Like It*, *Twelfth Night*, *Henry V*, and *Julius Caesar* The years 1600-1601 saw the creation of *Hamlet* and *The Merry Wives of Windsor*, the latter traditionally believed to have been written at the request of Queen Elizabeth Following this period, *Troilus and Cressida* and *All's Well That Ends Well* were produced in the subsequent theatrical seasons With the accession of James I, who, according to Ben Jonson, held Shakespeare in high regard, the playwright's influence continued to flourish.
Around 1608, a significant transformation occurred in the author's life, marked by profound tragedies and a shift towards a more optimistic perspective in his later romances According to Sir E Chambers, the likely timeline of plays during James's reign includes "Measure for Measure" and "Othello" (1604-5), "King Lear" and "Macbeth" (1605-6), "Antony and Cleopatra" (1606-7), and "Coriolanus" and "Timon of Athens" (1607-8) The subsequent three seasons featured "Pericles," "Cymbeline," and "The Winter’s Tale," with "The Tempest," likely Shakespeare's final completed work, dating to 1611-12 Additionally, "Henry VIII," attributed to Shakespeare for only a few scenes, was produced in 1613, while unscrupulous publishers misattributed his name to works like "The Widdow of Watling-street" (1607) and "The True Chronicle Historie of Thomas, Lord Cromwell."
The works attributed to Shakespeare include "The Life of Oldcastle" (1600), "The London Prodigal" (1605), "A Yorkshire Tragedy" (1608), and an earlier play on King John (1611) Notably, only two sonnets and three poems from "Love's Labour's Lost" were featured in "The Passionate Pilgrim" (1599), with most contributions coming from other authors Additionally, Shakespeare's name appears on a poetic essay about the Turtle and the Phoenix, included in Robert Chester's "Love's Martyr," a compilation of various poems.
Marston, Chapman, Jonson, and others in 1601 Shakespeare may have had some part in the authorship of the historical play Edward III, published in 1596, and Sir Thomas More
Shakespeare shifted away from writing plays, yet he likely left behind incomplete drafts with his company's manager These drafts were later finished by Fletcher and others, including works like "The Two Noble Kinsmen" and potentially others.
The History of Cardenio (Licensed for publication, 1653) reveals that his sonnets, rich in personal significance, exemplify profound artistic value These emotional lines reflect a sincere soul, capturing the essence of friendship and love The poet's exploration of friendship is imbued with sympathy, while love is portrayed in a vibrant spectrum of happiness, melancholy, and pain His sonnets vividly depict the evolving nature of love through dynamic imagery and exceptional visual language.
Shakespeare's sonnets uniquely reflect the turbulent times of his era, encapsulating themes of nostalgia, present regret, and future anxiety The poet's struggle against forgetfulness drives him to preserve time, emphasizing love, familial joy, children, and artistic endeavors as pathways to a fulfilling life This exploration of human faith and emotion elevated Shakespeare's ideological perspective, culminating in 154 sonnets that represent the zenith of his artistic and thematic contributions His work not only laid the groundwork for the success of English literature but also significantly influenced the sonnet form during the Renaissance, highlighting the profound obsession with time within the confines of human existence.
Shakespeare's sonnets evoke a profound sense of time, blending themes of forgetfulness and nostalgia The impressive timeline within his work showcases a multi-dimensional perspective on time, with the word "time" appearing over 20 times throughout his collection This recurring motif reflects the poet's haunting obsession with the passage of time and his emotions regarding life Additionally, the sonnets convey a nostalgic dimension, allowing readers to engage with the imagery of the past.
The literature review reveals a diverse range of research on the linguistic characteristics of literature, primarily focusing on figurative language to enhance the reading and learning of literary works While the analysis of figurative language is generally consistent, it is believed that the figurative language used in sonnet research differs from that in prose Currently, there is a lack of studies addressing sonnet analysis in English research papers from Thu Dau Mot University Journal of Science This study aims to bridge that gap by analyzing the linguistic characteristics of sonnets in these English papers, exploring rhyme schemes, themes, and underlying messages The findings will benefit those seeking to deepen their understanding of literature and the specific linguistic features of sonnets.
METHODOLOGY
The research method
This research is descriptive study, Nawawi (1995) states as follow:
The descriptive method serves as a problem-solving approach that involves analyzing and detailing the current state of a research subject, such as novels, plays, short stories, or poems, based on observable facts.
The qualitative research method employed in this study aims to explain and describe research outcomes through literary forms such as novels, dramas, short stories, and poetry, grounded in real facts The author utilizes written data from a collection of sonnets, with supporting theories relevant to the research This approach is further supported by Mahsun (Muhammad, 2011).
Qualitative research aims to describe and analyze phenomena, social activities, and individual or group perceptions, as noted by Sukmadinata (2010) It serves two primary purposes: to explore and describe, and to explain Similarly, Johnson & Christensen (2008) emphasize that qualitative methods focus on the processes of decision-making rather than just the facts of what, where, and when Lichtman (2006) further highlights that qualitative research is conducted in natural settings, aiming to create a comprehensive understanding of social interactions and perspectives.
Yanuar (2012) describes qualitative research as an emerging method that encompasses open-ended questions, interviews, observations, documents, and audiovisual materials, focusing on text and image analysis Mahsun (2005) adds that qualitative research reflects subjective realities, allowing participants to perceive multiple perspectives This approach reveals the complex and often controversial nature of reality, characterized by a limited scope of variation and an extensive depth of classification (Moleong).
Qualitative research, as described by Lichtman (2006), is conducted in natural settings and aims to create a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon being studied, focusing on social interactions and perspectives Johnson and Christensen (2008) emphasize that this method explores the processes of decision-making rather than just the facts of what, where, and when Additionally, Yanuar (2012) highlights that qualitative research is evolving, utilizing various data sources such as interviews, observations, documents, and audiovisual materials, and involves text and image analysis.
From the above views, it can be concluded that the qualitative research method is one of the methods that the researcher can use to investigate the problem
It is applied through a deep comprehension of something
The writer intends to utilize the qualitative research method, focusing on data derived from written sonnets The primary data source consists of a collection of these sonnets, while supporting theories enhance the research framework Mahsun (Muhammad, 2011) advocates for this approach for several reasons: it effectively studies plural realities, establishes a direct connection between the author and the research, and demonstrates sensitivity to the nuances of message, value, and norms This thesis employs content analysis as its qualitative research method.
The data sample
According to Robert (1994), a sample is defined as any segment of a population, irrespective of its representativeness Additionally, Sugiyono (2007) describes a sample as a subset that reflects the characteristics of the overall population.
In this research, the author takes the first one hundred sonnets as the sample, representing William Shakespeare’s sonnets
The writer focuses on the first 100 sonnets by William Shakespeare, highlighting their themes of youth, life, beauty, and human values These sonnets convey profound messages about good character and human virtues The selection of these specific sonnets is due to their exploration of the relationship with a young man, providing ample linguistic features for in-depth analysis.
The source of data
The data sources are divided into the primary and secondary sources
The main data sources are taken from the collection of sonnets by William Shakespeare
Secondary data serves to complement and enhance primary data, sourced from a variety of materials including books, essays, articles, magazines, and journals relevant to the study Additionally, Google Scholar is a valuable resource for locating pertinent information.
Data collection
The researcher will systematically gather data to address specific questions or problems According to Floop and Lapp (2005), data are verifiable facts In this study, the writer employs library research to collect information on figurative language found in William Shakespeare's sonnets.
Library research plays a crucial role in analyzing sonnets by gathering essential data and information from relevant books and resources After thoroughly reading and understanding the collected data, the author takes notes to formulate a conclusion As Attarsemi (1993) states, "Library research is a research method in an operating room or library, where the needed data and information about the subject matter are required through books or other audiovisual means."
Library research is essential for gathering data by locating relevant books as references This process involves repeatedly reading the data sources to identify the figurative languages and the messages conveyed in the poems The data collection strategy is flexible, encompassing various techniques for analysis According to Sukmadinata (2010), there are five key steps for collecting and analyzing data: (1) Planning.
Beginning to collect the data; (3) Collecting basic data; (4) Collecting closing data; and (5) Completing
3.4.3 The technique of data collection
The techniques of collecting data in this research are focused on:
The author analyzes the first 100 sonnets through repeated readings to uncover figurative language, themes, and rhyme schemes, aiming to grasp the intended meanings within these works.
In this research, the writer uses the note-taking method The writer conducts the documentation from the university libraries
The library research was conducted to enhance the analysis of the sonnets by gathering essential data and information from relevant books and resources After thoroughly reading and understanding the material, the author takes notes to ultimately draw conclusions.
Library research, as noted by Sukmadinata (2010) and in agreement with Attar semi (1993), involves gathering data by locating relevant books and other audiovisual materials that serve as references This research method is conducted in a library setting, where essential information about the subject is obtained.
Research design
This research aims to enhance readers' understanding of the types of figurative language and messages in Shakespeare's sonnets By uncovering the hidden figurative language within the lines, the study seeks to deepen appreciation for the essence of these sonnets The findings will benefit literary researchers in grasping the significance of figurative language and its messages, with the hope that the insights can be applied to various fields within literary studies.
Data analysis
This study employs qualitative methods to descriptively analyze the first 100 sonnets by William Shakespeare The research involves classifying and collecting relevant data through note-taking, focusing on three key aspects: themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language The analysis reveals the predominant use of various types of figurative language within these sonnets.
The first one hundred sonnets convey their messages through figurative language This research employs various techniques for analyzing qualitative data, specifically utilizing content analysis as the primary method for data collection and analysis.
Content analysis is defined as a research technique for making inferences by systematically and objectively identifying specific characteristics within text (Stone, Dumpy, Smith, and Ogilvie, 2002) Agus S Ekomadyo (2006) further elaborates that content analysis involves collecting and analyzing various forms of "text," which encompasses words, images, symbols, ideas, themes, and messages that can be communicated.
Neuman (2000) outlines the steps for conducting research using the content analysis method, which include determining the unit of analysis, establishing sampling methods, identifying objects and constructing coding categories, and drawing conclusions In this research, the author applies several of these steps to analyze the data effectively.
3.6.1 Reading the sonnets by William Shakespeare
The author analyzes the first 100 sonnets by William Shakespeare to uncover the fundamental elements and themes present in these works Through repeated readings, the author identifies various figures of speech and examines the rhyme schemes utilized in the sonnets, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of their structure and meaning.
The researcher draws tables containing some lines or words and using types of figurative language, such as alliteration, irony, symbolism, metaphor, personification, simile, and paradox in the sonnets
This research analyzes the themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language in William Shakespeare's sonnets The focus is on identifying the dominant types of figurative language employed by Shakespeare throughout his work By examining these elements, the researcher categorizes the various types used in the sonnets, providing insight into Shakespeare's stylistic choices.
The instruments of the study
According to Vanderstoep and Johnston (2009), Lincoln and Guba assert that humans are the most effective tools for qualitative analysis Supporting this view, Moleong (2008) emphasizes that in qualitative research, the researcher serves as the primary instrument for data collection Consequently, in this study, the researcher is the main instrument, responsible for planning, collecting, analyzing, and reporting the research findings.
This research utilizes a research library and data sheets to document linguistic phenomena in utterances The data sheets play a crucial role in helping the author classify, analyze, and interpret the collected data effectively.
Ethics of research
Research ethics, as highlighted by Duncombe and Jessop (2005), involve adhering to moral and legal standards in research, serving as guidelines for distinguishing right from wrong Bickman and Rog (1993) emphasize that researchers must be vigilant about ethical considerations at various stages of the research process, as ethical concerns can arise at every step.
This study analyzes the themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language in the first 100 sonnets by William Shakespeare, utilizing sonnets sourced from reliable English literature The primary focus of this thesis is not on evaluation or criticism, but rather on a comprehensive understanding of Shakespeare's poetic techniques.
This chapter outlines the research methodology, detailing data collection techniques, sampling methods, and the analysis of themes, rhyme schemes, and figurative language It also addresses research ethics to ensure adherence to ethical standards and scientific integrity The chapter presents the research methods employed to gather essential information for addressing the research questions, with results and discussions to be provided in Chapter 4.
Chapter 3 has showed the methodology used in the research in order to explore and analyze the types of figurative, rhyme schemes and themes analyzed in the thesis The findings from the sources of data will be analyzed and talked over in chapter 4.