Abbaabba

Definition

The term 'abbaabba' refers to a specific rhyme scheme commonly found in Petrarchan sonnets, where the first eight lines (the octave) are structured in this pattern. This arrangement establishes a lyrical and harmonious quality, creating a strong emotional foundation for the poem. It contrasts with other rhyme schemes, such as the Shakespearean sonnet, emphasizing different thematic developments and narrative arcs within poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'abbaabba' creates a tight structure that enhances the thematic unity and emotional intensity of the poem.
2. This rhyme scheme often presents a problem or situation in the octave, which is then resolved or explored further in the sestet.
3. The 'abbaabba' structure is associated with Italian poet Petrarch, who influenced many poets in later centuries.
4. Petrarchan sonnets often explore themes of love, nature, and beauty, using the 'abbaabba' scheme to emphasize contrasting ideas within the poem.
5. Understanding this rhyme scheme is essential for analyzing how poets use form to convey meaning and emotion.

Review Questions

• How does the rhyme scheme 'abbaabba' influence the emotional tone of a Petrarchan sonnet?
  • 'abbaabba' creates a strong emotional tone by establishing a harmonious pattern that reinforces the lyrical quality of the poem. This structured arrangement allows poets to present complex feelings and themes in a cohesive manner. The rhyme scheme helps create tension and resolution, leading readers through an emotional journey that mirrors the development of ideas within the sonnet.
• Compare and contrast the rhyme scheme 'abbaabba' in Petrarchan sonnets with that of Shakespearean sonnets. What are the implications for thematic development?
  • 'abbaabba' in Petrarchan sonnets contrasts with the Shakespearean rhyme scheme of ababcdcdefefgg. The octave's structure in 'abbaabba' allows for a more focused exploration of a single theme or problem before transitioning to a resolution in the sestet. In contrast, Shakespearean sonnets shift between themes more dynamically across quatrains, which can lead to more varied emotional expressions. This difference affects how poets build their arguments and engage readers.
• Evaluate how the rhyme scheme 'abbaabba' serves as a vehicle for thematic expression in Petrarchan sonnets and its broader influence on later poetry.
  • 'abbaabba' is crucial in shaping the thematic expression of Petrarchan sonnets, allowing poets to delve into themes of unrequited love, beauty, and nature with precision. This structured approach facilitates a deep emotional resonance and clarity that has influenced countless poets across generations. By providing a reliable framework for exploring complex ideas, 'abbaabba' has become an enduring feature in poetry, impacting not just sonnets but various forms of lyrical writing.

Related terms

Petrarchan Sonnet: A type of sonnet consisting of an octave followed by a sestet, typically following the rhyme scheme abbaabba for the octave.

Rhyme Scheme: The ordered pattern of rhymes at the ends of lines of a poem, which contributes to the poem's structure and flow.

Sestet: The final six lines of a Petrarchan sonnet, which often respond to or develop the theme introduced in the preceding octave.