1 of 5

Sonnet Discussion

How to Identify Sonnets

2 of 5

What is a Sonnet

  • Sonnet: Italian word that means “little song.”
  • A 14 line poem written with a specific rhythm. Usually iambic pentameter

3 of 5

Most Famous Sonnet Poet

  • William Shakespeare

4 of 5

Italian Sonnet

  • 14 lines
  • Consists of two parts
  • Octave: The first 8 lines. This part raises a question or presents a situation or problem.
  • Sestet: This part presents the solution or answer to the octave.

5 of 5

Shakespearean Sonnet

  • This sonnet has four parts
  • Three Quatrains
    • The first: Presents a proposition
    • The Second: Repeats and explains the first
    • Another repetition or a contrast

​

  • One Couplet
    • Sums up the UT or the literary beauty of the piece

​

​

​

​

​

​