The Structure of an Italian Sonnet

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 117 views

An Italian sonnet, also known as a Petrarchan sonnet, is a 14-line poem that follows a specific structure and rhyme scheme. It is a popular form of poetry that originated in Italy in the 14th century and has been widely used by poets ever since. In this article, we will explore the structure of an Italian sonnet and help you understand the correct answer to the question.

What is an Italian Sonnet?

An Italian sonnet is a 14-line poem that consists of two main parts: the octave and the sestet. The octave is the first eight lines of the poem, and the sestet is the final six lines. The octave usually presents a problem or a question, while the sestet provides a resolution or an answer.

The Structure of an Italian Sonnet

The structure of an Italian sonnet is as follows:

Octave: The first eight lines of the poem, usually written in iambic pentameter, with a specific rhyme scheme of ABBA ABBA.
Sestet: The final six lines of the poem, usually written in iambic pentameter, with a specific rhyme scheme of CDCDCD.

Key Features of an Italian Sonnet

There are several key features of an Italian sonnet that distinguish it from other forms of poetry. These include:

Rhyme Scheme: The rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet is a key feature that sets it apart from other forms of poetry. The octave follows a rhyme scheme of ABBA ABBA, while the sestet follows a rhyme scheme of CDCDCD.
Meter: Italian sonnets are usually written in iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five feet (syllables) with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.
Division: The octave and sestet are the two main divisions of an Italian sonnet. The octave usually presents a problem or a question, while the sestet provides a resolution or an answer.

Why is the Structure of an Italian Sonnet Important?

The structure of an Italian sonnet is important because it provides a framework for poets to express themselves in a specific and meaningful way. The rhyme scheme, meter, and division of an Italian sonnet all work together to create a sense of balance and harmony that is characteristic of this form of poetry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the structure of an Italian sonnet is a key feature that sets it apart from other forms of poetry. The octave and sestet, with their specific rhyme schemes and meters, provide a framework for poets to express themselves in a specific and meaningful way. By understanding the structure of an Italian sonnet, poets can create poems that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Answer to the Question

So, what is the correct answer to the question? The correct answer is:

C. An octave followed by a sestet

This is because an Italian sonnet consists of an octave (the first eight lines) followed by a sestet (the final six lines). The other options are not correct because they do not accurately describe the structure of an Italian sonnet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an Italian sonnet and a Shakespearean sonnet?
- An Italian sonnet is a 14-line poem that consists of an octave and a sestet, while a Shakespearean sonnet is a 14-line poem that consists of three quatrains and a couplet.
What is the rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet?
- The rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet is ABBA ABBA for the octave and CDCDCD for the sestet.
What is the meter of an Italian sonnet?
- The meter of an Italian sonnet is iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five feet (syllables) with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.

References

"The Oxford Handbook of Italian Literature" by Peter Brand and Lino Pertile
"The Cambridge Companion to Italian Literature" by Peter Brand and Lino Pertile
"The Italian Sonnet" by John Ciardi

Q: What is the difference between an Italian sonnet and a Shakespearean sonnet?

A: An Italian sonnet is a 14-line poem that consists of an octave and a sestet, while a Shakespearean sonnet is a 14-line poem that consists of three quatrains and a couplet. The Italian sonnet has a specific rhyme scheme and meter, while the Shakespearean sonnet has a different rhyme scheme and meter.

Q: What is the rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet?

A: The rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet is ABBA ABBA for the octave and CDCDCD for the sestet. This means that the first and third lines of the octave rhyme, as do the second and fourth lines, and so on.

Q: What is the meter of an Italian sonnet?

A: The meter of an Italian sonnet is iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five feet (syllables) with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. This creates a rhythmic pattern that is characteristic of the Italian sonnet.

Q: What is the division of an Italian sonnet?

A: The division of an Italian sonnet is into an octave and a sestet. The octave usually presents a problem or a question, while the sestet provides a resolution or an answer.

Q: What is the purpose of the octave in an Italian sonnet?

A: The purpose of the octave in an Italian sonnet is to present a problem or a question. This sets up the rest of the poem and provides a framework for the poet to explore the theme or idea.

Q: What is the purpose of the sestet in an Italian sonnet?

A: The purpose of the sestet in an Italian sonnet is to provide a resolution or an answer to the problem or question presented in the octave. This creates a sense of closure and completion in the poem.

Q: How do I write an Italian sonnet?

A: Writing an Italian sonnet requires a good understanding of the form and its key features. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose a theme or idea: Italian sonnets are often written about love, beauty, or mortality.
Use the correct rhyme scheme: The rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet is ABBA ABBA for the octave and CDCDCD for the sestet.
Use iambic pentameter: The meter of an Italian sonnet is iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five feet (syllables) with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.
Divide the poem into an octave and a sestet: The octave usually presents a problem or a question, while the sestet provides a resolution or an answer.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an Italian sonnet?

A: Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an Italian sonnet:

Not following the correct rhyme scheme: The rhyme scheme of an Italian sonnet is ABBA ABBA for the octave and CDCDCD for the sestet.
Not using iambic pentameter: The meter of an Italian sonnet is iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five feet (syllables) with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.
Not dividing the poem into an octave and a sestet: The octave usually presents a problem or a question, while the sestet provides a resolution or an answer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Italian sonnet is a beautiful and complex form of poetry that requires a good understanding of its key features. By following the correct rhyme scheme, meter, and division, you can write a successful Italian sonnet that explores a theme or idea in a meaningful way. We hope this Q&A article has been helpful in answering your questions and providing additional information about the Italian sonnet.

References

"The Oxford Handbook of Italian Literature" by Peter Brand and Lino Pertile
"The Cambridge Companion to Italian Literature" by Peter Brand and Lino Pertile
"The Italian Sonnet" by John Ciardi