Poem Analysis - Sonnet 70 That Thou Art Blamed Shall Not Be Thy Defect

Introduction: Enduring Virtue in the Face of Criticism

Shakespeare's Sonnet 70 is a powerful defense of a virtuous individual who faces unfair criticism. The poem, addressed to a "thou," likely a young and beautiful person, acknowledges the existence of slander and envy, but ultimately argues that these attacks only serve to highlight the subject's true worth. The initial tone is somewhat defensive, recognizing the pain of being "blamed." However, the poem transitions into a confident assertion of the subject's inherent goodness and the ultimate futility of envy. By the end, the tone borders on lament, suggesting that this very goodness might prevent the subject from achieving their full potential.

The Inevitability of Slander Against Beauty

One central theme of Sonnet 70 is the inevitability of slander against those who possess exceptional beauty and virtue. Shakespeare asserts that "slander's mark was ever yet the fair," implying that those who are attractive and morally upright will always be targets of envy and malicious gossip. This theme reflects a cynical view of human nature, suggesting that excellence breeds resentment. The imagery of the "crow that flies in heaven's sweetest air" encapsulates this theme perfectly; even in the most beautiful and pure environment, something ugly and discordant inevitably intrudes.

The Paradox of Virtue: A Blessing and a Curse

Another significant theme revolves around the paradoxical nature of virtue. The poem suggests that while goodness is inherently desirable, it can also be a source of vulnerability. The lines "For canker vice the sweetest buds doth love, / And thou present'st a pure unstainèd prime" highlight how innocence and purity attract corruption. Furthermore, the concluding couplet introduces the idea that the subject's presumed lack of "ill masked" might prevent them from fully realizing their potential. Perhaps Shakespeare suggests that a touch of shrewdness or a calculated façade is necessary to navigate the complexities of the world and "owe kingdoms of hearts."

Imagery of Corruption and Purity

Shakespeare employs potent imagery to contrast the forces of corruption and purity. Images like the "canker vice" attacking "the sweetest buds" and the "ambush of young days" vividly depict the dangers that threaten the subject's virtue. The "unstainèd prime" stands in stark contrast, representing the subject's innocence and moral strength. The imagery of "slander's mark" suggests a deliberate act of defilement, further emphasizing the unfairness of the attacks. The phrase "heaven's sweetest air" evokes a sense of pristine beauty, making the intrusion of the "crow" all the more jarring.

Final Insight: The Price of Perfection

In conclusion, Sonnet 70 offers a complex and nuanced exploration of virtue, envy, and the challenges of navigating a world rife with slander. The poem ultimately suggests that while goodness is inherently valuable, it can also be a liability in a world where appearance and perception often outweigh genuine merit. The final lines leave the reader pondering whether a touch of deception or guile might be necessary to fully succeed, hinting at the tragic possibility that the very qualities that make the subject admirable may also prevent them from reaching their full potential. It also poses a question: is it better to be genuinely good and misunderstood or to compromise one's values for the sake of worldly success?