Structure and meaning of books III and IV of the 'Faerie Queene'

Abstract

Books III and Iv of Spenser's Faerie Queene construct an intricate philosophy of love involving the association of feminine with matter and masculine with form, or spirit. As a Christian, Spenser recognized the polarization of spirit and flesh and sought to sanctify human love by arguing that the marriage of man and woman represents a reformation of the polarities of divided human nature: indeed, that man and women bring spiritual and material gifts, respectively, to one another. Women provide material generation and a lineage which is eternal through change. Men add spiritual and intellectual purpose which transcends both flesh and time.