One reason for this common misconception is the flowery diction which often makes little distinction between amorous love and platonic friendship of people of the same gender. ... Shakespeare begins sonnet 116 with the very idea that true love cannot be blocked. He does not say true love, though. He uses the term "marriage of true minds" instead. ... In compliance with that theory, his search for true love ended with a mysterious young man whom he immortalized in over one hundred sonnets. ...

• Word Count: 1120
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

There is no doubt that the friendship between Leontes and Polixnes symbolizes a kind of male union. ... They still endeavor to preserve their friendship in defiance of the temptation from women and keep their male union pure and stainless. ... Here we read a balance in their true love. ...

• Word Count: 2824
• Approx Pages: 11
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

This is a very true statement; Americans act like men must be very tough all the time. ... According to society men are supposed to be friends with men and women are supposed to be friends with women, this denies men the opportunity to have a natural friendship with a woman. ...

• Word Count: 1235
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School