Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Re

Name: Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Reason, Passes a Splendid Eulogium on Laura (Quell' Antiquo Mio Dolce Empio Signore)
Author: Francesco Petrarca

The poem Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Reason, Passes a Splendid Eulogium on Laura (Quell' Antiquo Mio Dolce Empio Signore), by Francesco Petrarca is a sonnet that explores the theme of love and its power over reason. The poem begins with the poet summoning Love to appear before Reason in order to defend itself against accusations of being irrational and uncontrollable. Throughout the poem, Love defends itself by arguing that it is a natural force that cannot be denied or controlled, and that it brings joy and happiness to those who experience it. The poem ends with Love triumphing over Reason, as the poet acknowledges that love is an essential part of life and should not be suppressed.

By Francesco Petrarca · First published 1342 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 2,385 words

First lines

Long had I suffer'd, till -- to combat more In strength, in hope too sunk -- at last before Impartial Reason's seat, Whence she presides our nobler nature o'er, I summon'd my old tyrant, stern and sweet; There, groaning 'neath a weary weight of grief, With fear and horror stung, Like one who dreads to die and prays relief, My plea I open'd thus: "When life was young, I, weakly, placed my peace within his power, And nothing from that hour Save wrong I've met; so many and so great The torments I have borne, That my once infinite patience is outworn, And my life worthless grown is held in very hate!

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Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Reason, Passes a Splendid Eulogium on Laura (Quell' Antiquo Mio Dolce Empio Signore) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Francesco Petrarca, dated 1342 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Francesco Petrarca
Date: 1342 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Classical Literature, Eulogy
Length: 2,385 words
Structure: 1 section, 38 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Reason, Passes a Splendid Eulogium on Laura (Quell' Antiquo Mio Dolce Empio Signore) by Francesco Petrarca
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Love, Summoned by the Poet to the Tribunal of Reason, Passes a Splendid Eulogium on Laura (Quell' Antiquo Mio Dolce Empio Signore)?
How does this poem by Francesco Petrarca fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is a poem, characterized by its structure, meter, and use of poetic devices.
Romance — The central theme revolves around love and admiration for Laura.
Philosophical — The poem explores the conflict between love and reason, a common philosophical theme.
Classical Literature — The work is part of the classical literary canon, reflecting the style and themes of its time.