That sweet enemy, france

That sweet enemy, france

Philip Sidney, a prominent figure in Elizabethan literature and politics, had a complex relationship with France during his lifetime. In his famous work, "An Apology for Poetry," Sidney refers to France as "that sweet enemy," highlighting the love-hate dynamic that existed between the two countries.

Sidney's admiration for France stemmed from its cultural and artistic achievements. The French Renaissance was in full swing during Sidney's time, and he was undoubtedly influenced by the works of French poets, playwrights, and philosophers. French literature, in particular, had a profound impact on Sidney's own writing style, as he incorporated elements of French poetry and rhetoric into his own works.

Furthermore, France was seen as a bastion of chivalry and courtly love, ideals that Sidney held in high regard. The French court was renowned for its sophistication and elegance, and Sidney likely aspired to emulate the French nobility in his own life and writings. In fact, Sidney's own courtly persona and reputation as a gallant knight were in many ways influenced by the French courtly tradition.

However, despite his admiration for French culture, Sidney also viewed France as a political and military rival. The two countries were often at odds during the Elizabethan era, with conflicts arising over territorial disputes and religious differences. Sidney himself served as a diplomat and soldier in the ongoing struggle between England and France, and his experiences on the battlefield undoubtedly colored his perception of the French as a formidable adversary.