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In both Marie de France’s “Milun” and John Donne’s “The Flea,” a non-human animal (swan and flea, respectively) serves as a kind of mediator between human lovers.
Consider the ways both poems explore the relationship between human and animal. Do these poems imply a blurring between the categories of human and animal or do they re-inscribe them? What role do forms of physical contact and violence play in this relationship?
Sample Answer
Exploring the Mediating Role of Animals in Marie de France’s “Milun” and John Donne’s “The Flea”
In both Marie de France’s “Milun” and John Donne’s “The Flea,” non-human animals play a crucial role in mediating the relationship between human lovers. These poems delve into the complex dynamics between humans and animals, raising questions about the boundaries between these categories. While both poems involve forms of physical contact and violence, they do not necessarily blur the lines between humans and animals but rather re-inscribe them, emphasizing the power dynamics and societal norms that shape these relationships.
The Mediating Role of Animals
In “Milun,” the swan serves as a pivotal figure that facilitates the reunion of the lovers, Milun and his secret lover. The swan carries messages between them, becoming a bridge between their separate worlds. Similarly, in “The Flea,” the flea functions as a mediator, embodying their physical union by being the vessel in which their blood mingles. In both poems, animals act as messengers, connecting the lovers and enabling their communication and intimacy.
Blurring or Re-inscribing Categories
Although animals play a significant role in these poems, they do not imply a blurring of the categories of human and animal. Instead, they reinforce the distinction between the two. In “Milun,” the swan’s actions are portrayed as extraordinary and fantastical, highlighting its non-human nature. Similarly, in “The Flea,” the flea’s role is limited to its biological function, emphasizing its distinctiveness from humans. By emphasizing the unique abilities and characteristics of these animals, the poems reinforce the notion of a clear boundary between humans and animals.
Forms of Physical Contact and Violence
Forms of physical contact and violence are present in both poems, contributing to the exploration of the human-animal relationship. In “Milun,” the swan physically carries letters and messages between Milun and his lover, symbolizing their desire for connection despite physical separation. Additionally, when Milun is wounded by an arrow, he asks his lover to send a piece of clothing stained with her blood as a token of her love. This act of violence, though not directly involving the swan, highlights the sacrifices made for love.
In “The Flea,” physical contact takes a more intimate form. The flea bites both the speaker and his lover, mingling their blood within its tiny body. The speaker uses this physical encounter as a persuasive argument to convince his lover to engage in sexual relations. While this act may seem violent or invasive, it is presented as a harmless action that should not be resisted. The poem explores how physical contact between humans and animals can be used to convey powerful messages and strengthen emotional bonds.
Conclusion
Both Marie de France’s “Milun” and John Donne’s “The Flea” utilize animals as mediators in the relationships between human lovers. While these poems do not blur the boundaries between humans and animals, they re-inscribe them by emphasizing the distinctiveness of each category. Forms of physical contact and violence play crucial roles in these relationships, symbolizing desire, connection, sacrifice, and persuasion. Ultimately, these poems shed light on the intricate dynamics between humans and animals, highlighting the ways in which non-human creatures can serve as powerful symbols and intermediaries in our interpersonal relationships.
