In summers heate and mid-time of the day To rest my limbes…
““In summers heate and mid-time of the day To rest my limbes upon a bed I lay, One window shut, the other open stood, Which gave such light as twinkles in a wood, Like twilight glimpse at setting of the Sunne, Or night being past, and yet not day begunne. Such light to shamefast maidens must be showne, Where they may sport, and seeme to be unknowne. Then came Corinna in a long loose gowne, Her white neck hid with tresses hanging downe, Resembling fayre Semiramis going to bed, Or Layis of a thousand lovers sped. I snatcht her gowne: being thin, the harme was small, Yet strived she to be covered therewithall. And striving thus as one that would be cast, Betrayde her selfe, and yeelded at the last. Starke naked as she stood before mine eye, Not one wen in her body could I spie. What armes and shoulders did I touch and see, How apt her breasts were to be prest by me. How smooth a belly under her wast saw I, How large a legge, and what a lustie thigh? To leave the rest, all liked me passing well, I clinged her naked body, downe she fell, Judge you the rest, being tirde she bad me kisse; Jove send me more such after-noones as this.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A speaker describes a sensual encounter, focusing on the physical details and desire, using elaborate, erotic imagery.
In simple terms: A vivid, erotic description of a sexual encounter.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the objectification and power dynamics in such portrayals.
Themes
desire
eroticism
objectification
power
gender
sexuality
Mood
sensual
intense
controversial
Type
literary
erotic
historical
When to use this quote
- theatrical performance
- private intimacy
- artistic expression
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Renaissance literature
courtly love
bodily desire
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this portrayal reflect Renaissance attitudes toward women?
- What impact does such objectification have on modern readers?
A Different Perspective
The passage glorifies the speaker’s conquest while ignoring consent and agency.