Astrophel and Stella

"Astrophel and Stella" is a collection of sonnets written by Sir Philip Sidney during the Elizabethan age. These poems were highly popular at the time and followed the theme of courtly love, a concept rooted in medieval literature. The protagonist of the poems is a lovelorn suitor who passionately pursues a woman who is already married and faithful to her vows. Despite his unsuccessful attempts, the poet is captivated by her beauty and virtue, which constantly tug at his emotions and create a tormenting conflict. Sidney, however, skillfully challenges the traditional conventions of courtly love through his creative exploration of these ancient themes and restrictions."