the poem “The Art of Love”

THINKING ABOUT THE TOPIC: Study the poem “The Art of Love” (pp. 326-8 in the Norton Anthology, Vol.
B). Make sure that you understand the numerous figures of speech (especially the complex metaphors and
comparisons). Pay special attention to the parts of the poem where Arnaut talks directly about love, desire,
and writing (and/or other art forms). The beginning and the end of the poem are the most important parts.
After you study the poem, consider the following questions: how does Arnaut describe the work he does as a
writer? Does he compare writing to other art forms and other occupations? How does Arnaut feel about his
work as a writer? What is the emotional tone of the conclusion of the poem? What is Arnaut’s attitude
towards his work and towards the pain of love?
Your essay should be focused on “The Art of Love.” However, you may wish to emphasize certain points by
briefly contrasting Arnaut’s poem to “The Wound of Love,” by Heinrich von Morungen (pp. 341-2). Heinrich’s
attitude towards the pain of love is very different from Arnaut’s. What accounts for Arnaut’s different attitude?
You should also consider other questions that occur to you as you study the texts. Answering my questions
one by one will not constitute an essay. Your thesis should not simply restate my questions. You must
advance a specific argument about Arnaut’s poem. You will need to develop your own argument, using your
own terms.
FORMAT FOR THESE PAPERS: The model to use is the persuasive essay in several paragraphs. Begin with
an introduction that introduces your argument about this poem. The introduction should give us a small
amount of necessary background; but it should focus on introducing your points about Arnaut’s poem. End
your introduction with your thesis statement: an argument that you will justify, through the use of specific
textual examples, in several paragraphs that constitute the body of the paper. You must use quotations
throughout the paper. Show your reader, with references to specific words and phrases, how Arnaut is
expressing himself. When you have finished this close examination of your evidence, conclude not by
repeating what you have already said, but by reflecting upon the significance of your main points.
EVALUATION: My comments on your work will include suggestions for revisions, which will be optional. You
will be welcome to revise, but I will expect your revisions to present substantive re-writing, not just corrections.
You are encouraged to meet with me to discuss my comments.
PLEASE NOTE: These essays should express your own ideas and efforts to understand the texts.
Secondary research is neither expected nor recommended. Read closely, patiently, repeatedly, and make
your own points. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. If you plagiarize, you will be caught, and I will have to
refer your name to the Office of the Dean of Students.