Notes for Shakespeare's Sonnet 111


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Shakespeare's
Sonnet
111

1. chide: argue.

2. harmful deeds: wrong actions.

4. public means: subsistence earned by pleasing the public. —This may be a reference to Shakespeare's occupations of playwright and actor.   public manners: vulgar conduct.

5. name receives a brand: reputation receives a mark of disgrace.

6. subdued: reduced.

8. renew'd: cured; restored to what I was by nature.

9. whilst: meanwhile; during that time.

10. potions of eisel: draught of vinegar (which was commonly taken to avoid the plague and other diseases).

12. penance: punishment.   correct correction: add punishment to punishment.

14. even that your pity: that very pity of yours.