Petrarchan

Definition

Petrarchan refers to a specific form of sonnet that originated from the works of the Italian poet Petrarch in the 14th century. This type of sonnet is characterized by its unique structure, typically consisting of 14 lines divided into an octave and a sestet, following the rhyme scheme ABBAABBA for the octave and various patterns such as CDCDCD or CDECDE for the sestet. Petrarchan sonnets often express themes of love, beauty, and nature, emphasizing the emotional depth of the poet's experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Petrarchan sonnet is named after Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch), who is often regarded as one of the earliest humanists and a master of lyrical poetry.
2. The octave of a Petrarchan sonnet introduces a problem, situation, or emotional state, while the sestet often provides a resolution or reflection on that situation.
3. Petrarchan sonnets are known for their use of volta, or 'turn', which is a shift in tone or argument that typically occurs between the octave and sestet.
4. Many famous poets, including John Milton and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, have used the Petrarchan form in their own works to explore themes of love and longing.
5. The influence of Petrarchan sonnets can be seen in later poetic movements, as they helped establish the conventions of sonnet writing in both Italian and English literature.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast the structure of Petrarchan sonnets with Shakespearean sonnets.
  • Petrarchan sonnets consist of an octave and a sestet with a rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave and various patterns for the sestet. In contrast, Shakespearean sonnets are structured with three quatrains followed by a couplet, using the rhyme scheme ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This structural difference influences how each form presents themes; while Petrarchan sonnets often present a problem followed by resolution, Shakespearean sonnets can explore multiple facets of a theme before concluding.
• Discuss how the volta contributes to the overall effectiveness of a Petrarchan sonnet.
  • The volta is crucial to the effectiveness of a Petrarchan sonnet because it marks a pivotal shift in thought or emotion. This 'turn' typically occurs between the octave and sestet, allowing the poet to transition from presenting a problem to exploring its implications or solutions. This structural device heightens emotional impact and engages readers by offering a fresh perspective on the subject matter.
• Evaluate the impact of Petrarch's work on modern poetry, particularly in relation to themes and forms used by contemporary poets.
  • Petrarch's influence on modern poetry is profound, particularly in how themes of unrequited love and idealized beauty continue to resonate today. His use of structured forms like the Petrarchan sonnet has inspired countless poets who adopt similar structures while infusing their own voices. The exploration of deep emotions through this framework allows contemporary poets to connect with readers on personal levels, showcasing how timeless themes can be expressed through established forms.

Related terms

Sonnet: A poetic form that consists of 14 lines, often written in iambic pentameter, with various rhyme schemes.

Shakespearean: Another type of sonnet that consists of three quatrains followed by a couplet, typically following the rhyme scheme ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

Imagery: Descriptive language that evokes sensory experiences and helps convey emotions or ideas within poetry.