Question

Please help!!! If you have not done so yet, conduct a brief search of the Internet to find two audio performances of "Sonnet 130." As
you listen, analyze the performances. Then write a brief paragraph of at least 100 words contrasting the two

performances. Consider differences in the reading of the speech and the interpretation of the sonnet. Which

interpretation best matched Shakespeare's intended tone? Cite specific lines from the sonnet to support your answer.

Answer 1

William Shakespeare's Sonnet 130 mocks the conventions of the showy and flowery courtly sonnets in its realistic portrayal of his mistress.

Explanation:

Sonnet 130 is an unusual poem because it turns the idea of female beauty on its head and offers the reader an alternative view of what it's like to love a woman, warts and all, despite her shortcomings. True love isn't reliant on some illusive notion of perfect beauty. Sonnet 130 is like a love poem turned on its head.

William Shakespeare does not appreciate the sonnet 130 rather he makes fun of it. He mocks it. He said that  the showy and flowery courtly sonnets in its realistic portrayal of his mistress is the source of mocking the sonnet 130.

Answer 2

** The actual answer to this question, handwritten by me for the assignment that I also have to complete so it is done well**

Stephen Fry: https://vimeo.com/44735899

David Harewood: https://www.show-score.com/studio/playlists/minute-shakespeare/is-this-the-perfect-performance-of-sonnet-130

The performance by Stephen Fry was very lively and well paced. I thought that the way he read the sonnet really gave it life. He accentuated certain words that brought more depth to the work, and he actually gave me a new interpretation of the sonnet's lines. David Harewood gave a very dramatic rendition of Sonnet 130. It pulled more emotion and interest from me. This performance is even known as the perfect performance of Sonnet 130, and I have to agree. I think both performances were good, but I would highly recommend David Harewood's take over Stephen's.