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Death, Be Not Proud

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Death, Be Not Proud

“Death, Be Not Proud” is a nonfiction sonnet written by John Donne, in which the speaker takes on Death, claiming it to be boastful and proud unjustifiably. The speaker takes a stand against the oppressive nature of Death, and asserts that a greater effect can take place through the use of simple human means, such as “poppies, or charms.” In fact, Donne ultimately claims that death has no real effect, and could conceivably be a relief, as we will “wake eternally.” He alleges that in the end, the only thing to die is Death itself.
Throughout the poem, Donne talks to death as though he is speaking to it directly. This use of personification is of use, especially when the author is seemingly patronizing death, calling it “poor Death.” He exploits Death’s dependence on accidents, mistakes, and misfortune. According to Donne, Death is at the mercy of “Fate, Chance, kings, and desperate men.” He demeans Death’s endeavors to such an extent that he pokes fun at its bleak and undesirable affiliates, “poison, war and sickness.” In giving death the role of something tangible, Donne is certainly aiming to take control and humble a force that is seen to most as unnerving.
By establishing supremacy, it seems as though John Donne is trying to convince others to adopt the same attitude as he. Considering his obvious belief in heaven through the phrase “wake eternally,” Donne is proudly claiming to have conquered death because of his acceptance of the Christian afterlife. With the kingdom of heaven awaiting your arrival on the other side, why would one fear death? It’s possible that Donne is aspiring to set an example of his conquering faith by telling others that death is nothing to fear. He’s assuring those that are weary of their life after death. He conveys the prospect that death is simply an extended sleep, a waiting period before you are inducted into

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