Blazon and Counter-blazon in Shakespeare's Sonnets. The Usage of the Blazon in Comparison to its Traditional Use

The thesis investigates Shakespeare's innovative use of the blazon in his sonnets, contrasting it with traditional applications. It begins by defining key terms and exploring typical poets and works associated with the blazon. The analysis then centers on Shakespeare's representations of the Young Man and the Dark Woman, examining how these figures differ from conventional portrayals. Ultimately, the study seeks to elucidate the roles of blazon and counter-blazon within Shakespeare's poetic framework, with supporting texts included in the appendix.