How can you tell if a poem is in sonnet form?

The sonnet form has been changed and adapted over the years, however there are two main structures that poets use when writing sonnets.

A Petrarchan sonnet has 14 lines and is structured as an octave (8 line stanzas) and a sestet (6 line stanzas). Its rhyme scheme is usually abababab cdcdcd / cdecde.

A shakespearian sonnet is a variation of the Petrarchan, with the same total number of lines, however is structured into three quatrains (4 line stanzas) and finishes with a rhyming couplet. Its rhyme scheme is usually abab cdcd efef gg.

Sonnets traditionally address topics such as nature and love, and are usually in iambic pentamenter, giving them songlike and rythmic qualities.

Answered by Olivia D. English tutor

10499 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does Shakespeare use setting in the play Hamlet?


'The tragic hero's downfall is a product of their hubris' - To what extent do you agree with this view?


'In 'Hamlet', Shakespeare uses comedy to make serious points.' Discuss.


What is the best way to make use of the time given in an exam?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences