A Petrarchan sonnet, also known as an Italian sonnet, consists of 14 lines divided into two parts: an octave and a sestet. The octave typically follows the rhyme scheme ABBAABBA, presenting a problem or emotional state, while the sestet often employs varying rhyme schemes such as CDCDCD or CDECDE to resolve the initial thought or provide a reflection. This structure is crucial for understanding the works of poets influenced by Petrarch, especially in their exploration of themes like love and longing.
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The Petrarchan sonnet was named after the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca, who popularized this form in the 14th century.
This type of sonnet often focuses on unattainable love, reflecting deep emotional states and philosophical musings.
The shift from the octave to the sestet is often marked by a 'turn' or 'volta', where the mood or argument of the poem changes direction.
While the traditional rhyme scheme is ABBAABBA for the octave, poets may vary the sestet's scheme to suit their thematic needs.
Many English poets, including Sir Philip Sidney and John Milton, were influenced by Petrarchan sonnets in their own works, adapting the form to explore their unique themes.
Review Questions
How does the structure of a Petrarchan sonnet influence its thematic development?
The structure of a Petrarchan sonnet plays a crucial role in its thematic development by separating the poem into an octave and a sestet. The octave introduces a problem or emotional state through its rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA, which sets up an expectation for resolution. The sestet then provides a resolution or commentary, often using different rhyme schemes like CDCDCD. This division allows poets to explore complex emotions and create a powerful shift in tone or perspective.
Discuss how Sir Philip Sidney's use of Petrarchan sonnets contributes to his exploration of love and desire in his poetry.
Sir Philip Sidney effectively utilizes the Petrarchan sonnet form to delve into themes of love and desire in his poetry. His sequence 'Astrophil and Stella' showcases this through the structure's emphasis on emotional conflict in the octave and introspection in the sestet. By adopting this form, Sidney mirrors Petrarch's tradition while infusing his own unique experiences and struggles with unrequited love, enriching the emotional resonance of his work.
Evaluate the impact of the Petrarchan sonnet on subsequent sonnet sequences in English literature.
The impact of the Petrarchan sonnet on subsequent sonnet sequences in English literature is profound, as it provided a foundational structure that many poets adapted for their own purposes. Poets such as Shakespeare and Milton drew on the emotional depth and flexibility of the Petrarchan form to create their sequences, allowing them to explore themes beyond mere romantic love. This adaptability led to innovations within the sonnet form itself, paving the way for diverse expressions of personal and social themes across centuries.