Each time the humour more abounds, and more
Doth it extend its scourge upon the land:
Against Orlando thus from vales below
And hills above, doth the vile rabble grow.
(Canto 24.)
These comparisons not only shew faithful and personal observation, but are far more subjective and subtle than, for instance, Dante's. The same holds good of Tasso. How beautiful in detail, and how sentimental too, is this from Jerusalem Delivered:
Behold how lovely blooms the vernal rose
When scarce the leaves her early bud disclose,
When, half unwrapt, and half to view revealed,
She gives new pleasure from her charms concealed.