1. SONNETS

2. SONNET Two types of sonnets: Petrarchan and Shakespearean. The words sonnet is derived from the Italian word, sonnet, meaning “little sound; song.” A sonnet is a 14 line lyric poem that conforms to strict patterns of rhythm and rhyme.

3. Petrarchan or Italian Sonnet Perfected by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca Has 14 lines. Has a “typical rhyme scheme” which is established by the End rhyme or the last word in a line. abba/abba/ccd/eed Has two distinct parts: The Octave and the Sestet.

4. Octave, Sestet and Volta The first 8 lines (or Octave) of the Petrarchan Sonnet poses a question, presents a problem or introduces a theme. The next six lines (or Sestet) of the Petrarchan Sonnet answer the question, suggests a solution or comments on the theme presented in the Octave. The transition between the two parts is called the Volta. It means “turn” and it usually shows up in line 9.

5. Sonnet 42 by Petrarch