2/10 Sonnets

What is a sonnet? A sonnet is a fourteen-line poem in iambic pentameter. What is iambic pentameter? It is a line of ten syllables, with five unstressed syllables alternating with stressed syllables – dee DUM dee DUM dee DUM dee DUM dee DUM – “But soft, what light through yonder window breaks”

History of Sonnets Sonnets originated in the 12 th century Became popular in Shakespeare’s time Usually about LOVE, though today’s sonnets will sometimes focus on other topics

Rhyming patterns The Shakespearean sonnet has three quatrains followed by a couplet, the scheme being: abab cdcd efef gg. The sonnet does NOT divide the quatrains and couplets

First crossed by a gypsy, now by a dang witch “Close the book, ring the bell, light the candle.” The witch’s words resounded in my ears. My problems now were more than I could handle and so I hoped she’d vanquish all my fears. She stared at me across the darkened room and then commanded me that I must stay until my wish was granted. Then a broom she grabbed, and out the door she flew away! The magic lay in me, the hag had said. I only had to wish with all my might. But with my kind of luck, I might be dead before I’d get what I had wished that night. I sit here still; she’s left me with a curse! No magic cure yet, now my back is worse!

Writing Assignment You will create your own sonnet It is due FEBRUARY 19 th. Let’s Review the handout. Today’s assignment: – Begin drafting your sonnet! – Have fun!

Wrap it up! I will see periods 1,2, and 3 tomorrow. Langstone Hughes essay due this week. See me if you have any questions. Keep an eye on your gradebook. The quarter ends March 11 th !