What is the Difference Between Shakespearean and Petrarchan Sonnet

The key difference between Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnet is their structure. A Shakespearean sonnet has three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a concluding couplet, whereas a Petrarchan sonnet has an octave (eight-line stanza) and a sestet (six-line stanza).

Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnets are two prominent forms of poetry that have inspired many poets and readers alike for centuries. These sonnet forms originate from different time periods and cultural contexts and exhibit distinct characteristics in structure and rhyme scheme.

1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is a Shakespearean Sonnet
3. What is a Petrarchan Sonnet
4. Similarities – Shakespearean and Petrarchan Sonnet
5. Shakespearean vs Petrarchan Sonnet in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Shakespearean vs Petrarchan Sonnet

What is a Shakespearean Sonnet

A Shakespearean sonnet is a poetic form that was popularized by the renowned English playwright and poet William Shakespeare. It follows a specific structure and rhyme scheme.

A Shakespearean sonnet consists of 14 lines, just like a Petrarchan sonnet, but it has a different rhyme scheme and structure. It is divided into three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet (a two-line stanza). The rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnet is typically ABAB CDCD EFEF GG. Towards the end of the third quatrain, there’s the volta (“turn”), which marks a shift in the mood of the poem. It is at this point that the poet expresses a change in their thinking or perspective. Moreover, each line of a Shakespearean sonnet is written in iambic pentameter. In iambic pentameter, a line is composed of five iambs, which are pairs of syllables where the second syllable is stressed.

Shakespeare’s sonnets have had a profound influence on English literature and continue to be celebrated for their artistry and emotional depth.

What is a Petrarchan Sonnet

Petrarchan sonnet is a poetic form that originated in Italy and was popularized by the Italian poet Francesco Petrarch in the 14th century. It is named after him and is also known as an Italian sonnet.

A Petrarchan sonnet consists of 14 lines and follows a specific rhyme scheme. The poem is divided into two parts: an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The rhyme scheme of the octave is typically ABBAABBA, while the sestet can have various rhyme schemes, such as CDCDCD or CDECDE.

The first four lines of the octave (the first quatrain) introduce a problem or conflict. The next part explains the problem or gives more information to the reader. Then comes the sestet, which starts with a volta. This change in the rhyme scheme signals a shift in the conflict towards a solution or resolution. The sestet works to wrap up the problem and offer a way forward or a new perspective.

Traditionally, Petrarchan sonnets explore themes of love, beauty, and idealized emotions. The Petrarchan sonnet form has been widely used by poets in different languages and cultures since Petrarch’s time. It has influenced the development of sonnet writing in English and remains a popular choice for many poets.

What are the Similarities Between Shakespearean and Petrarchan Sonnet

Both types of sonnets have 14 lines.
They are generally written in iambic pentameter.
Both have a volta.

The key difference between Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnet is that A Shakespearean sonnet has three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a concluding couplet, whereas a Petrarchan sonnet has an octave (eight-line stanza) and a sestet (six-line stanza). Moreover, Shakespearean sonnets often follow the pattern ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, while in Petrarchan sonnets, the octave has a specific rhyme scheme, usually ABBAABBA, while the sestet can vary, commonly following CDECDE or CDCDCD.

The following table summarizes the difference between Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnet.

Summary – Shakespearean vs Petrarchan Sonnet

Shakespearean sonnets and Petrarchan sonnets are two of the most popular forms of poetry in English literature. The key difference between Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnet is in their structure. A Shakespearean sonnet has three quatrains and a couplet, whereas a Petrarchan sonnet has an octave and sestet.