Fastness: A Translation from the English of Edmund Spenser Irony

Fastness: A Translation from the English of Edmund Spenser Irony

The paradox of Mutabilitie Cantos

The King of Gods is a powerful man. Ironically, Mutabilitie Cantos is courageous enough to criticize the king's power and argue that he derives power from his army. Therefore, Cantos means that The King of Gods can be rendered powerless if the military is stripped off from him.

The satire of Edmund Spenser

The Queen sends Edmund Spencer to go and stop a rebellion that is taking shape in Ireland. Satirically, Spenser is not very successful in his mission because the people of Ireland are treacherous and rude. Therefore, the people of Ireland are determined to reject England's rule and demand for self-rule.

The irony of the colonies

The colonies under Queen Gloriana are expected to pay allegiance to her reign without question. Ironically, the colonies realize that the Queen's rule is oppressing them. Therefore, there are rampant rebellions against the Queen's reign, and she is scared that she is losing control.

The irony of the people of Ireland

The Queen expects the people of Ireland to listen to Edmund Spenser and end the Desmond rebellion. Ironically, the people of Ireland are rude, treacherous, and fearless. Consequently, the people want nothing less than their freedom to determine their future without being coerced by the Queen's authority.

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