Historical Context
Shakespeare’s “Sonnet 30” was written during the Elizabethan Age, a period in English history marked by significant cultural, political, and artistic developments. The era, named after Queen Elizabeth I, who ruled from 1558 to 1603, was characterized by a flourishing of literature, theater, and exploration. During this time, England was experiencing a resurgence of interest in literature and the arts, with a particular emphasis on poetry and drama. This period saw the rise of English Renaissance literature, influenced by classical Greek and Roman works as well as the Italian Renaissance. Shakespeare, as one of the most prominent figures of this period, played a central role in shaping Elizabethan literature. The relative calm during this period in England’s history allowed poets to look inward and deal with themes such as love, time, mortality, and the human condition.
“Sonnet 30,” along with Shakespeare’s other sonnets, was written within the conventions of the Elizabethan sonnet tradition. Further, many scholars believe that Shakespeare started writing the sonnets when the outbreak of a plague caused theaters to close in the early 1590s. It is speculated that Shakespeare may have initially penned these sonnets under commission from the affluent family of a young Earl of Southampton, who had rejected an arranged marriage. The early sonnets encourage the handsome aristocrat to marry and have children. However, as the sonnets progress, Shakespeare’s focus shifts, suggesting a deeper emotional involvement on his part. This transition indicates a departure from the original intent, with Shakespeare himself possibly developing romantic feelings for the young man.
