A Semantic Study of Emotional Contradictions in the Dark Lady Sonnets, Focusing on Desire, Betrayal, and Infidelity

Abstract

Shakespeare’s sonnets are legendary for their powerful expression of complex emotions, from dissatisfaction to intense lust. This research focused on the semantic study of emotional contradictions and explored desire, betrayal, and infidelity in five selected “Dark Lady” sonnets (from the 126 in Part II), revealing both physical and spiritual dimensions of love. Shakespeare’s sonnets feature four main characters: the Speaker (Shakespeare himself), the Fair Youth, the Rival Poet, and the Dark Lady. This study specifically focuses on the Dark Lady sonnets. To uncover their deeper layers, the research employs Geoffrey Leech’s theory of seven types of meaning. This approach helps decode the hidden meanings within Shakespeare’s lines, providing a richer understanding of his intricate portrayal of desire and relationships.