Sonnets are a type of poem that have been popular for centuries. These poems are known for their strict structure and specific rules. A sonnet usually consists of 14 lines, and each line follows a specific rhyme scheme and meter. The most common meter used in sonnets is called iambic pentameter, where each line has ten syllables, with every second syllable being stressed.
The sonnet form has a long history. It originated in Italy in the 13th century and was later perfected by the famous poet Petrarch. Over time, the sonnet spread to other countries, most notably England. Many famous poets, such as William Shakespeare, used the sonnet form to express their thoughts and emotions.
There are different types of sonnets, but the two main types are the Shakespearean sonnet and the Petrarchan sonnet. While both share the 14-line structure, they have different rhyme schemes and divisions. Let’s take a closer look at these two main types of sonnets and understand their differences.
The Shakespearean Sonnet
The Shakespearean sonnet, also known as the English sonnet, is one of the most famous types of sonnets. It was popularized by William Shakespeare, who wrote 154 sonnets in this form. This type of sonnet consists of 14 lines, which are divided into three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final rhymed couplet (two lines).
Rhyme Scheme of the Shakespearean Sonnet
The rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnet follows this pattern: ABAB CDCD EFEF GG. This means that the first and third lines rhyme with each other, and the second and fourth lines rhyme with each other, and so on. The final two lines, called the couplet, rhyme with each other as well.
First quatrain (four lines): The first line rhymes with the third line (A), and the second line rhymes with the fourth line (B).
Second quatrain (four lines): The pattern continues with the second quatrain having its own set of rhymes (C and D).
Third quatrain (four lines): This follows the same pattern, but with new rhymes (E and F).
Final couplet (two lines): The last two lines rhyme with each other (G).
Structure and Meter of the Shakespearean Sonnet
Each line in a Shakespearean sonnet typically follows the meter of iambic pentameter, which means that each line has 10 syllables, with the stress alternating between unstressed and stressed syllables. The sonnet is made up of three quatrains, which allow the poet to develop an argument, idea, or theme, and the final couplet offers a resolution or twist to the theme.
The Shakespearean sonnet has a flexible structure, allowing poets to express a wide range of emotions and ideas. The three quatrains can explore different aspects of a topic, and the final couplet often brings a conclusion or surprise.
Themes and Topics of the Shakespearean Sonnet
Shakespeare’s sonnets cover a wide range of themes, including love, beauty, time, and mortality. However, the common thread in many of these sonnets is the poet’s contemplation of life’s fleeting nature. In many Shakespearean sonnets, the poet uses the couplet to offer a twist or a revelation, leaving the reader with a powerful thought.
For example, in Sonnet 18, Shakespeare writes about the beauty of the beloved, comparing it to a summer’s day. In the final couplet, he writes, “So long as men can breathe or eyes can see, / So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.” This final couplet gives the poem a sense of immortality, suggesting that the poem itself will preserve the beauty of the beloved forever.
The Petrarchan Sonnet
The Petrarchan sonnet, also known as the Italian sonnet, is the other main type of sonnet. It was developed by the Italian poet Petrarch in the 14th century and became the model for many poets in Italy and beyond. Unlike the Shakespearean sonnet, the Petrarchan sonnet is divided into two parts: an octave (the first eight lines) and a sestet (the last six lines).
Rhyme Scheme of the Petrarchan Sonnet
The rhyme scheme of the Petrarchan sonnet is slightly different from the Shakespearean sonnet. The octave follows the rhyme scheme ABBA ABBA, and the sestet can have a variety of rhyme schemes, such as CDECDE or CDCDCD.
Octave: The first eight lines follow the rhyme scheme ABBA ABBA. The first line rhymes with the fourth, and the second rhymes with the third.
Sestet: The last six lines can have different rhyme schemes, like CDECDE or CDCDCD. The poet has more freedom in the sestet to experiment with rhyming.
Structure and Meter of the Petrarchan Sonnet
Just like the Shakespearean sonnet, the Petrarchan sonnet is also written in iambic pentameter, so each line has 10 syllables, with alternating unstressed and stressed syllables.
The division into two parts—the octave and the sestet—allows the poet to explore an idea or problem in the first eight lines and then provide a resolution or answer in the last six lines. The change in rhyme scheme between the octave and the sestet is called the volta, which means “turn” in Italian. The volta represents a shift in the poem’s tone or theme, often signaling a change in perspective or an answer to the question posed in the first part of the poem.
Themes and Topics of the Petrarchan Sonnet
The Petrarchan sonnet is often associated with the theme of unattainable love. Petrarch’s own sonnets were written about his idealized love for Laura, a woman he could not have. The octave often describes the poet’s feelings of longing, suffering, or frustration, while the sestet offers a turn in the narrative, either resolving the issue or suggesting a different way of thinking.
For example, in Petrarch’s Sonnet 1, the octave describes his suffering due to unrequited love, while the sestet offers a more hopeful outlook. The turn between the two parts shows the shift in the poet’s thoughts from despair to acceptance.
Comparing the Two Types of Sonnets
Now that we’ve explored the two main types of sonnets, let’s compare them in terms of structure, rhyme scheme, and themes.
Structure and Rhyme Scheme
Shakespearean Sonnet: Has 14 lines divided into three quatrains and a final couplet. The rhyme scheme is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
Petrarchan Sonnet: Has 14 lines divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The rhyme scheme for the octave is ABBA ABBA, and the rhyme scheme for the sestet is usually CDECDE or CDCDCD.
Themes
Shakespearean Sonnet: Often explores themes such as love, beauty, time, and immortality. The final couplet often offers a surprising twist or conclusion.
Petrarchan Sonnet: Focuses on themes of unattainable love, longing, and desire. The shift from the octave to the sestet often marks a change in perspective or resolution.
Volta and Structure
Shakespearean Sonnet: The volta, or shift in tone, usually happens at the start of the third quatrain, but this can vary.
Petrarchan Sonnet: The volta typically occurs between the octave and the sestet, where the poet introduces a shift in theme or resolution.
Conclusion
Both the Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnets are powerful poetic forms that have stood the test of time. While they share the 14-line structure and the use of iambic pentameter, they differ in their rhyme schemes, divisions, and the way they develop and resolve themes. The Shakespearean sonnet is more flexible in its structure and often ends with a memorable couplet, while the Petrarchan sonnet divides the poem into two distinct parts, creating a clear shift in tone or perspective.
Understanding these two types of sonnets can help you appreciate the depth and beauty of this classical poetic form. Whether you are writing your own sonnet or analyzing the works of great poets like Shakespeare or Petrarch, knowing the differences between these sonnet types will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of poetry.
