Sidney\u27s Astrophil and Stella, Sonnet 108

Contends that although sonnet 108 is now considered to represent Sir Philip Sidney\u27s final statement on the relationship of the two lovers, it remains largely ignored in most critical treatments of `Astrophil and Stella.\u27 Need for a thorough understanding of its unique alchemical and emblematic imagery; Strong evocation of esoteric Renaissance science of alchemy; Sidney\u27s reference to the `wretch\u27; Horizontal axis along which Stella\u27s thoughts pass to Astrophil