1. An Intro to Sonnets AP Literature & Comp., pd. 1A

2. Definition of a Sonnet A sonnet is a form of lyric poetry composed of fourteen lines and written in iambic pentameter. The two major types of sonnets are Petrarchan (or Italian) and Shakespearean (or English). Iambic pentameter is a type of poetic meter which includes iambs-two syllables of poetry: one unstressed and one stressed syllable. The pentameter is simply five times (penta) which is equal to ten syllables per line. “But as for me, alas, I may no more”

3. Structure and Form Each of the two types of sonnets has a particular rhyme scheme. –Petrarchan sonnet: an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The sonnet’s rhyme scheme is abba abba cde cde –Shakespearean sonnet: three quatrains (four lines) and a couplet (two lines) The sonnet’s rhyme scheme: abab cdcd efef gg

4. Form Creates Meaning Petrarchan Sonnet: –The octave raises a question or makes an argument –The sestet explores and resolves the issue –Each sonnet has a “turn”- the place in the poem where the poet goes from questioning to resolution Shakespearean Sonnet: –The 3 quatrains present distinct, different images –The couplet resolves it

5. “Whoso List to Hunt” by Sir Thomas Wyatt Whoso list to hunt, I know where is an hind, But as for me, alas, I may no more. The vain travail hath wearied me so sore I am of them that farthest cometh behind. Yet may I, by no means my wearied mind Draw from the deer, but as she fleeth afore, Fainting I follow. I leave off therefore, Since in a net I seek to hold the wind. Who list her hunt, I put him out of doubt, As well as I, may spend his time in vain. And graven with diamonds in letters plain There is written, her fair neck round about, “Noli me tangere, for Caesar’s I am, And wild for to hold, though I seem tame.”