Sidney’s View on the Role and Function of Poetry

Answer

Show how Sidney argues that the function of a poet is to teach and delight.

Or, Comment on Sidney’s view on the role and function of poetry.

Philip Sidney (1554-1586), in his essay “An Apology for Poetry” (1595), defends poetry and explains its role and function in human life. Sidney argues the main purpose of poetry is to teach and delight. He believes that poetry is not just for fun but also plays a big role in shaping people’s minds and hearts. Sidney says:

“Poesy, therefore, is an art of imitation;… a speaking picture… to teach and delight.”

According to him, a good poet does two things:

1. Teaches moral lessons (like a philosopher)
2. Makes learning enjoyable (like a storyteller)

Sidney says that this special power of poetry makes it better than history and philosophy.

Poetry Teaches Moral Lessons: Sidney believes that poetry is a great teacher. It helps people understand virtue (goodness) and morality (right and wrong). But unlike philosophy—which teaches using difficult words and ideas—poetry makes learning simple and interesting. Sidney says:

“Whatsoever the philosopher saith should be done, [the poet] giveth a perfect picture of it.”

Philosophy teaches moral rules, but these rules are hard to understand and remember. History shows real events, but it does not always teach clear lessons—because sometimes bad people succeed and good people suffer. Poetry is better than both because it creates perfect examples of virtue through heroes and stories. People can learn what is right and wrong by reading about characters who show goodness, bravery, and wisdom.

For example, Aeneas (from Virgil’s “Aeneid”) teaches duty and responsibility. Hercules (from Greek mythology) shows strength and perseverance. These characters inspire readers to be good in real life. Sidney calls the poet—

“The right popular philosopher.”

Poetry Makes Learning Enjoyable: Sidney says that poetry does not just teach—it also makes learning fun and interesting. Many people do not like to read history or philosophy—because they find it boring