Unveiling the Enigma of The Faerie Queene: A Journey Through Spenser's Allegorical Masterpiece
- Ken Kalis
- Jul 30
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 13
The Faerie Queene was the grand prize of my Renaissance literature studies at Fordham University.
I loved it as soon as I began to read, and I have never stopped. Why?
It delights and amazes at the same time, and all the while it teaches.
What? "To fashion a gentleman or noble person in virtuous and gentle discipline," says Spenser (c1542-1599)
The poem is a great palace, but the door into it is so low that you must stoop to go in. No prig can be a Spenserian. - C.S. Lewis, (1889-1963)
Engaging Overview
In the world of English literature, few works hold the same enchantment as Edmund Spenser's (c1542-1599) The Faerie Queene. This epic poem consists of over 36,000 lines, making it one of the longest poems in English history. It serves as a rich narrative filled with knights, virtues, and intricate allegories. Comprising six books and utilizing the innovative Spenserian stanza, this poetic masterpiece explores moral archetypes and offers insights into the political dynamics of Spenser’s time.
An asterisk after a name means the person is in my book SPIRITUAL LIVES.
Join us as we delve into the captivating layers of The Faerie Queene, uncover its allegorical depths, and revisit its influential characters, themes, and historical context.
The Historical Context
To understand The Faerie Queene, it is essential to grasp the historical circumstances that inspired it. Spenser wrote this epic during a time of significant political and religious strife in England. Queen Elizabeth (1533-1601) dominated the late 16th century, which was a crucial period for national stability.
Spenser's ties to the court, possibly influenced by explorer Walter Raleigh (1552-1618) allowed him to create a work that both celebrated the Queen and subtly critiqued her decisions. This dual perspective lends a layer of significance to the text, presenting it as both a homage to moral virtues and a reflection on the complexities of leadership.
The Faerie Queene was written during the Reformation, a time of religious and political controversy. After taking the throne following the death of her half-sister Mary,(1516-1648) Elizabeth changed the nation's official religion to Protestantism. You can read the full text of the poem Here:
The plot of Book One is similar to Foxe's Book of Martyrs, which was about the persecution of the Protestants and how Catholic rule was unjust.[9] Spenser includes the controversy of Elizabethan church reform within the epic.
Gloriana has godly English knights destroy Catholic continental power in Books I and V Spenser also endows many of his villains with "the worst of what Protestants considered a superstitious Catholic reliance on deceptive images".
Archetypes, Symbolism and Allusion
Throughout The Faerie Queene, evil characters disguise their identities and tell lies in order to trick heroic characters into doing things they wouldn’t otherwise do. Archimago in Book I is one of the earliest examples of this type of trickster character, using magic and some mischievous sprites in order to trick the Redcross Knight into believing that his chaste lady Una has been unfaithful to him.
According to Spenser, the most dangerous thing about deception is that it can make an evil thing appear like a good one—or even better than a good one. The episode shows how deception can be seductive—but it also shows how the allure of deception is temporary,
Spenser portrays how the glamor of lies and deception can lead even virtuous characters astray, but he also shows how true virtue and honesty win out in the end.
Come, come away, fraile, feeble, fleshly wight,
Ne let vaine words bewitch thy manly hart,
Ne divelish thoughts dismay thy constant spright.
Young knight, what ever that does armes professe,
And through long labours huntest after fame,
Beware of fraud, beware of ficklenesse,
In choice, and change of thy deare loved Dame Book I: Canto IV Quotes
Come, come away, fraile, feeble, fleshly wight,
Ne let vaine words bewitch thy manly hart,
Ne divelish thoughts dismay thy constant spright. Book I: Canto IX Quotes
Structure and Style of The Faerie Queene
A standout feature of The Faerie Queene is its unique structure. Spenser introduced the Spenserian stanza, which comprises nine lines: the first eight lines in iambic pentameter followed by a single line of iambic hexameter (alexandrine). This rhythmic variation not only enhances the lyrical flow of the poem but also allows for deeper exploration of narrative and moral themes.
The impact of The Faerie Queene on English poetry has been immense. Its ambitious range has inspired poets like John Milton (1604-1674) and Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892) to examine complex allegories intertwined with thrilling narratives. For example, modern poets continue to draw parallels to Spenser's blend of action and moral exploration.
Book I: The Quest for Holiness
At the core of The Faerie Queene lies Book I, an enchanting journey centered on the virtue of Holiness. The protagonist, the Redcrosse Knight, embodies the quest for true holiness as he encounters various trials and tribulations.
The narrative begins with the Redcrosse Knight alongside his lady, Una, who symbolizes truth and purity. Their path leads them to battle Errour, a multi-headed monster representing falsehood. This dramatic opening sets the stage for deeper character development and moral encounters.
Through the Redcrosse Knight’s struggles, Spenser skillfully incorporates lessons that resonate with readers. His challenges illustrate how the quest for holiness is riddled with distractions and temptations, much like the trials individuals face today. For instance, the Redcrosse Knight's journey reflects the internal conflicts many experience when striving for personal integrity in a challenging world.
Allegorical Layers and Political Commentary
While The Faerie Queene tells a captivating story, its true brilliance lies in the allegorical layers that Spenser intricately weaves throughout the text. Each knight represents a specific virtue: holiness, temperance, chastity, friendship, justice, and courtesy. Their narratives serve as mirrors to the virtues’ roles and implications in society.
Interestingly, the poem can also be seen as a commentary on Queen Elizabeth I. Spenser’s Letter of the Authors suggests that the epic was not merely for entertainment but served as a moral guide for leaders. For instance, Spenser’s praises of qualities like justice reflect the expectations of good governance during Elizabeth's rule. This multi-dimensional approach makes The Faerie Queene relevant even centuries later, compelling readers to consider the moral responsibilities of leadership.
Books II-VI: Continuing the Quest
In the successive books, Spenser amplifies the exploration of virtues through new characters and tales. Each knight faces unique challenges that align with their virtues, illustrating personal growth and societal intricacies.
Book II revolves around Temperance, introducing Sir Guyon as a noble character who confronts the temptations of excess. Spenser emphasizes that every virtue has its corresponding vice, stressing the balance needed for a fulfilled life. For example, Guyon’s struggles reflect contemporary debates around moderation and self-discipline in our fast-paced world.
In Books III through VI, themes of Chastity, Friendship, Justice, and Courtesy unfold, painting a complex picture of human action and virtue against real-life challenges. The interactions between characters enrich the overarching narrative and present an idealized society built around these key virtues.
Reflecting on Virtues’ Role in Society
The Faerie Queene remains a monumental work within English literature, encapsulating the spirit of the Elizabethan era while prompting timeless reflections on morality, virtue, and the human experience. Through the detailed allegorical threads, Spenser transforms a narrative about knights into a significant commentary on societal values.
As we analyze the intricate designs embedded in this epic poem, we are reminded of how essential virtues are in shaping both individuals and communities. Spenser's legacy still resonates today, encouraging readers to examine their own challenges and aspirations towards the ideals he eloquently portrayed.
Whether regarded as a historical monument, a literary gem, or a source of inspiration, The Faerie Queene stands out as a profound exploration of the quest for holiness amid an imperfect world.
******************************************
Called Unto HOLINESS
“Called unto HOLINESS,” church of our God,
Purchase of Jesus, redeemed by His blood;
Called from the world and its idols to flee,
Called from the bondage of sin to be free.
Refrain:
“HOLINESS unto the Lord” is our watchword and song,
“HOLINESS unto the Lord” as we’re marching along;
Sing it, shout it, loud and long,
“HOLINESS unto the Lord,” now and forever.
“Called unto HOLINESS,” children of light,
Walking with Jesus in garments of white;
Raiment unsullied, nor tarnished with sin;
God’s Holy Spirit abiding within.
“Called unto HOLINESS,” praise His dear Name!
This blessed secret to faith now made plain:
Not our own righteousness, but Christ within,
Living, and reigning, and saving from sin.
“Called unto HOLINESS,” glorious thought!
Up from the wilderness wanderings brought,
Out from the shadows and darkness of night,
Into the Canaan of perfect delight.
“Called unto HOLINESS,” bride of the Lamb,
Waiting the Bridegroom’s returning again!
Lift up your heads, for the day draweth near
When in His beauty the King shall appear.
Leila N. Morris, 1900
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto HOLINESS. 1 Thes. 4:7
Comments