Exploring Shakespeare's Sonnet 130 and Sonnet 144, this research paper highlights their unconventional approach to 16th-century English sonnets. By challenging traditional gender stereotypes and the typical portrayal of women in love poetry, these sonnets subvert reader expectations. They present a negative blazon, offering a critical perspective on societal norms surrounding beauty and love. The paper emphasizes the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's work in addressing themes that resonate with contemporary discussions on gender and representation.
