Sonnet

Meaning and Definition of a Sonnet:

A sonnet is a specific form of poetry with a long and rich history in literature. The word sonnet comes from the Italian word “sonneto,” meaning “little song.” It typically consists of 14 lines written in a specific rhyme scheme and meter. The most common type of sonnet is the Shakespearean or English sonnet, which follows a distinct rhyme scheme and structure. Another well-known type is the Petrarchan or Italian sonnet. Another important aspect of both Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnet is the turn, or volta. This is a shift in the poem that can be seen through a change in narrator, belief, or setting. It can even consist of an answer to a question posed in the first half.

Sonnets are often used to express deep emotions, explore complex themes, or tell a concise story. They are known for their tightly controlled structure and poetic craftsmanship.

Shakespearean Sonnet (or English Sonnet):

Shakespearean sonnet is also sometimes referred to as “Elizabethan.”  It is made up of three quatrains, or sets of four lines, and one concluding couplet, or set of two rhyming lines. The poem follows a consistent rhyme scheme that conforms to the pattern of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG and it is written in iambic pentameter. This means that each line contains five sets of two-beat. The first is unstressed and the second stressed.

One great example of the Shakespearean sonnet at its strongest is Shakespeare’s own poem, ‘Th’ expense of spirit in a waste of shame.’ It is also known by its number, 129. It is one of the 154 sonnets written by the poet. It was published in 1609 and is part of the group known as the “Dark Lady” sonnets.

Petrarchan Sonnet (or Italian Sonnet):

• It also consists of 14 lines.

• The rhyme scheme is typically ABBAABBACDCDCD or a similar variation.

• It is written in iambic pentameter.

The Petrarchan/Italian Sonnet

The second major form, the Italian or Petrarchan sonnet was created by Giacomo da Lentini in the early 1200s. But, it was used in depth by another Italian poet Guittone d’Arezzo who rediscovered the form and wrote close to 250 sonnets. At this same time, Dante Alighieri, the famed author of ‘The Divine Comedy’ and Guido Cavalcanti were also writing in this form. But, it was Petrarch who became the most famous for his early sonnets. But what is a Petrarchan sonnet and how does it differ from a Shakespearean? Well, they are similar in a few fundamental ways, but there are also some major differences.

Within Petrarchan sonnets, there are two halves, the first eight lines, or octet, which is followed by the sestet, a set of six lines. The octet always follows the rhyming pattern of ABBAABBA, but the sestet is open to change. Two of the most common rhyming patterns are CDCDCD and CDECDE. Also in contrast to a Shakespearean sonnet, the turn occurs between the octet and the sestet, rather than before the final two lines. ‘The World’ by Christina Rossetti is a great example of a Petrarchan sonnet.

Sonnets are a versatile poetic form that has been employed to explore a broad range of themes, from love and beauty to time, mortality, and the human experience.