| From the perspective of the foregrounding theory,this study investigates how Shakespeare’s Sonnets de-automatized certain conventionalized poetic elements of the sonnet tradition.These are poetic elements that were once intended to serve as foregrounded literary devices that are contrasted to the background of common speech,but over time they have gradually merged into the background,losing their novelty and eventually becoming formulaic and ineffective,unable to convey ideas effectively any more.Against this backdrop,Shakespeare,with his literary mastery,endeavored to deautomatize the sonnet form from such established conventions and managed to rejuvenate it with a sense of novelty by infusing its structure,characterization,and theme with fresh vigor and distinctiveness.This study argues that Shakespeare took an ironic approach to subvert the conventionalized sonnet,leading to an effect that is also ironic in nature.Irony is created by the discrepancy between expectation and reality.The reader is met with surprise when reading the Sonnets because of their deviation from automatized expectations.This unexpected result,which contrasts with the established norms of the sonnet form,is itself a form of irony.Ultimately,this ironic subversion guides the reader towards a fresh and genuine interpretation of profound themes,such as love and human nature.Firstly,this study examines how the individual poetic structure of each sonnet and the overarching narrative structure of the entire sonnet sequence have become automatized over time.It then highlights how Shakespeare’s Sonnets diverged from these established norms,opting instead for innovative and unique poetic variations.This analysis reveals that Shakespeare employed various techniques to question and overturn the traditional structure of the sonnet.By doing so,he was able to craft a unique mode of communication that accurately and sincerely mirrors human emotions and psychological conditions.This study proposes that Shakespeare’s disruption of the automatized structure of the sonnet form fosters a fresh perspective on the potential and possibilities of this poetic style,which is a key factor in the broad recognition and appreciation that the Sonnets have received.Secondly,this study investigates how Shakespeare’s Sonnets de-automatize the foregrounded characterization of the conventionalized sonnet.His treatment of characters such as the Fair Youth,the Dark Lady,and the Rival Poet deviates drastically from the automatized norm,introducing complexity and multi-dimensionality instead of maintaining traditional idealized personae.This departure not only allows Shakespeare to challenge established norms but also facilitates a more profound exploration of human nature,emotional authenticity,and psychological depth.Lastly,this study explores how Shakespeare’s Sonnets critique the conventionally foregrounded thematic elements of the sonnet that have become automatized.Shakespeare provided novel insight into the psychological complexity of human emotion,portraying multidimensional characters in a realistic touch.By doing so,he subverted the traditional standards of beauty and morality that had hitherto been reinforced through the repetitive foregrounding of formulaic and clichéd imagery and metaphor.Shakespeare’s deviation from the conventionalized sonnet structure,his inventive way of characterization,and his critique of its thematic components all contribute to the ironic subversion of established norms within the sonnet form.By breaking away from these conventions,Shakespeare invites the reader to reevaluate their preconceived notions of what a sonnet may be,revealing new possibilities for the expression of complex human emotions and psychological states.Ultimately,Shakespeare’s ironic de-automatization of the Sonnets serves as a testament to the power of artistic innovation and the enduring potential of the sonnet form. |
