Sir Thomas Wyatt, a courtier of King Henry VIII, is renowned for introducing the Petrarchan sonnet to English literature. His works, including 'Whoso List to Hunt' and 'They Flee From Me,' delve into themes of love, desire, and court intrigue. Wyatt's diplomatic missions to Italy influenced his poetry, which laid the foundation for future English poets. His legacy endures in the literary world, with his sonnets reflecting the complexities of Tudor court life.
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Sir Thomas Wyatt was born in Kent in 1503 and came from a prominent family
St. John's College, Cambridge
Wyatt received his education at St. John's College, Cambridge
Exposure to Petrarch's Works
During his travels to Italy, Wyatt was exposed to the works of Petrarch, which greatly influenced his poetry
Wyatt served as a diplomat for King Henry VIII and was knighted in 1537
Wyatt is credited with introducing the sonnet form to English literature
Wyatt adapted the Petrarchan sonnet into English, popularizing the form in England and influencing future poets
Whoso List to Hunt
This sonnet uses the metaphor of hunting to express the pursuit of unattainable love, possibly referencing Anne Boleyn
The Pillar Perished
This poem is thought to lament the execution of Thomas Cromwell
My Lute Awake
This poem speaks to the pain of unrequited love
They Flee From Me
This poem reminisces about past relationships
Forget Not Yet
This poem pleads for recognition of steadfastness and virtue in the face of courtly fickleness
Wyatt's time at court was marked by both favor and disfavor, reflecting the volatile nature of Tudor politics
Steward
Wyatt initially served as a steward before taking on more significant diplomatic roles
Diplomat
Wyatt's diplomatic missions were pivotal to his poetic development
Wyatt's diplomatic missions were fraught with danger, including his capture and escape during an imperial conflict
Wyatt's introduction of the sonnet and exploration of themes such as love and courtly politics left a lasting impact on English literature
Wyatt's poetry frequently explores themes of love, rejection, and the complexities of life at court
Wyatt's life, intertwined with his artistic achievements and personal struggles, embodies the turbulent nature of the Tudor period
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Wyatt, who was educated at ______, was knighted in ______ after enduring the ups and downs of court life, including imprisonment.
St John's College, Cambridge
1537
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Origin of Wyatt's sonnet adaptation
Adapted Petrarchan sonnet during Italy travels.
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Structure of Wyatt's sonnets
Followed octave and sestet model, 14 lines in iambic pentameter.
