Often extraordinary excellence, not being rightly conceived, does rather offend than please

Often extraordinary excellence, not being rightly conceived, does rather offend than please

Sir Philip Sidney, a prominent figure in the Elizabethan era, was a man of extraordinary excellence in various fields such as poetry, prose, and courtly manners. However, his exceptional talents and achievements were not always appreciated or understood by his contemporaries. In his essay "An Apology for Poetry," Sidney discusses how often extraordinary excellence, not being rightly conceived, does rather offend than please.

Sidney argues that true excellence is often misunderstood or underappreciated because it goes against the norms and expectations of society. He believed that the true purpose of poetry and literature was to inspire and elevate the soul, but many people at the time viewed poetry as frivolous or unnecessary. Sidney's own works, such as his sonnet sequence Astrophil and Stella, were not always well-received by his peers, who may have found his innovative style and themes challenging or unconventional.

In addition to his literary pursuits, Sidney was also known for his chivalrous behavior and courtly manners. He was admired for his grace, wit, and charm, but his adherence to a strict code of honor and integrity sometimes put him at odds with others. Sidney's refusal to compromise his principles or bow to authority may have made him appear arrogant or aloof to some, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Despite these challenges, Sidney remained steadfast in his commitment to excellence and continued to produce works of enduring beauty and significance. His writings, including his influential essay on the nature and purpose of poetry, have stood the test of time and continue to inspire readers and scholars today.