Petrarchan Sonnet vs. Shakespearean Sonnet

Attribute	Petrarchan Sonnet	Shakespearean Sonnet
Structure	14 lines, divided into an octave and a sestet	14 lines, divided into three quatrains and a final couplet
Rhyme Scheme	ABBA ABBA CDE CDE	ABAB CDCD EFEF GG
Volta	Usually occurs between the octave and sestet	Usually occurs at or near the beginning of the final couplet
Subject Matter	Often explores themes of unrequited love and idealized beauty	Varies widely, can cover a range of topics including love, time, and mortality
Tone	Tends to be more introspective and emotional	Tends to be more varied, can include humor, wit, and irony
Language	Often employs elaborate and poetic language	Uses a more straightforward and accessible language

Introduction

Sonnets are a popular form of poetry that originated in Italy during the Renaissance. Two prominent types of sonnets are the Petrarchan Sonnet and the Shakespearean Sonnet. While both forms share similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of Petrarchan and Shakespearean Sonnets, highlighting their structure, rhyme scheme, themes, and overall tone.

Petrarchan Sonnet

The Petrarchan Sonnet, also known as the Italian Sonnet, was popularized by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarch in the 14th century. This form consists of 14 lines divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The octave typically presents a problem or conflict, while the sestet offers a resolution or conclusion. This structure allows for a clear progression of thought within the poem.

In terms of rhyme scheme, the Petrarchan Sonnet follows a specific pattern. The octave usually follows an ABBAABBA rhyme scheme, with the first and fourth lines rhyming, as well as the second and third lines. The sestet, on the other hand, has more flexibility in its rhyme scheme. It can vary between CDECDE, CDCDCD, or even CDDCDC.

Thematically, Petrarchan Sonnets often explore themes of unrequited love, idealized beauty, and the pain of longing. The poet often expresses their emotions and desires through elaborate metaphors and imagery. The tone of Petrarchan Sonnets tends to be more introspective and melancholic, reflecting the poet's inner turmoil and yearning.

Shakespearean Sonnet

The Shakespearean Sonnet, also known as the English Sonnet, was popularized by the renowned playwright and poet William Shakespeare in the late 16th century. Like the Petrarchan Sonnet, it consists of 14 lines, but it follows a different structure. The Shakespearean Sonnet is divided into three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet. This structure allows for a more complex development of ideas within the poem.

In terms of rhyme scheme, the Shakespearean Sonnet follows a strict pattern. The quatrains typically follow an ABAB CDCD EFEF rhyme scheme, with each quatrain presenting a different idea or aspect of the overall theme. The final couplet, however, deviates from this pattern and often follows a GG rhyme scheme. This couplet is often used to provide a concluding thought or a twist in the poem.

Thematically, Shakespearean Sonnets cover a wide range of topics, including love, beauty, time, and mortality. While love is a common theme, Shakespeare's sonnets also delve into the complexities of human relationships and the fleeting nature of life. The tone of Shakespearean Sonnets can vary greatly, from passionate and romantic to contemplative and philosophical.

Comparison

When comparing the attributes of Petrarchan and Shakespearean Sonnets, several key differences emerge. Firstly, the structure of the two forms sets them apart. The Petrarchan Sonnet follows an octave-sestet structure, allowing for a clear progression from problem to resolution. On the other hand, the Shakespearean Sonnet follows a quatrain-couplet structure, enabling a more intricate development of ideas within the poem.

Secondly, the rhyme schemes of the two forms differ significantly. The Petrarchan Sonnet typically follows an ABBAABBA CDECDE rhyme scheme, while the Shakespearean Sonnet adheres to an ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme. These distinct rhyme patterns contribute to the overall musicality and flow of the poems.

Thirdly, the themes explored in Petrarchan and Shakespearean Sonnets also vary. Petrarchan Sonnets often focus on unrequited love, idealized beauty, and the pain of longing. In contrast, Shakespearean Sonnets cover a broader range of topics, including love, time, beauty, and mortality. Shakespeare's sonnets also delve into the complexities of human relationships and the transient nature of life.

Lastly, the overall tone of the two forms differs. Petrarchan Sonnets tend to have a more introspective and melancholic tone, reflecting the poet's inner turmoil and longing. On the other hand, Shakespearean Sonnets can have a wide range of tones, from passionate and romantic to contemplative and philosophical. Shakespeare's mastery of language and wordplay adds depth and complexity to the tone of his sonnets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both Petrarchan and Shakespearean Sonnets are revered forms of poetry, they possess distinct attributes that set them apart. The Petrarchan Sonnet follows an octave-sestet structure, with a specific rhyme scheme and a focus on themes of unrequited love and longing. On the other hand, the Shakespearean Sonnet follows a quatrain-couplet structure, with a different rhyme scheme and a broader range of themes. The tone of Petrarchan Sonnets tends to be more introspective, while Shakespearean Sonnets can vary greatly in tone. Both forms, however, showcase the beauty and power of the sonnet as a poetic form, captivating readers with their lyrical language and profound insights into the human experience.