An Introduction to Sonnet/Different types of Sonnet

An Introduction to Sonnet/Different types of Sonnet

Sonnet is a form of verse. It has its origin in Italy. A sonnet is a poem of fourteen lines. Generally, they consist of five iambic feet in each line.

Now, we need to know what an iambic feet is. In an iambic foot, an unstressed syllable is followed by a stressed one.

That is to say, we first meet an unaccented syllable, then an accented one.

For example, when we pronounce the word "rewrite", we must note that the syllable "write" is given the accent. However, in "rewrite", "write" is the root or the kernel word.

Now I suppose that we have got a hang of it. Let's come back to the main discussion.

Sonnets can be of three subgenres, namely, the Petrarchan sonnet, the Spenserian sonnet and the Shakespearean sonnet.

The Petrarchan sonnet has an octet and a sestet. The octet or octave carries a comparison. The sestet brings out the true meaning. It has the rhyme scheme of either abba abba cde cde or abba abba cd cd cd or abba abba cce dde or abba abba cdd cee.

The Spenserian sonnet consists of three quatrains and a concluding couplet, therefore comprising a rhyme scheme of abab bcbc cdcd ee.

The Shakespearean sonnet comprises three quatrains and a rhymed couplet with a rhyme scheme of abab cdcd efef gg. The lines are written in iambic pentameter.