1. Structure:
Shakespearean sonnet: Consists of 14 lines, typically divided into four quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet (two-line stanza). The rhyme scheme follows the pattern ABAB CDCD EFEF GG.
Petrarchan sonnet: Also consists of 14 lines but divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines). The rhyme scheme is typically ABBA ABBA CDCDCD or CDECDE.
2. Theme and Tone:
Shakespearean sonnet: Explores a wide range of themes, including love, friendship, beauty, mortality, and the nature of poetry itself. The tone can vary, from light and playful to serious and contemplative.
Petrarchan sonnet: Often focuses on unrequited or unattainable love, with the speaker expressing admiration, longing, and sorrow. The tone tends to be more elevated and idealized.
3. Language and Imagery:
Shakespearean sonnet: Uses a rich and varied vocabulary, including puns, wordplay, and figures of speech such as metaphors, similes, and personification. Imagery is often vivid and sensual.
Petrarchan sonnet: Known for its elegant and polished language, with a more restrained use of figurative language. Imagery tends to be more symbolic and abstract.
4. Volta:
Shakespearean sonnet: Often contains a shift or "volta" in the third quatrain, where the speaker's perspective or tone changes, or a new idea is introduced.
Petrarchan sonnet: Also has a volta but it usually occurs between the octave and the sestet, marking a transition in thought or emotion.
5. Cultural and Historical Context:
Shakespearean sonnet: Emerged during the English Renaissance, influenced by the Italian sonnet tradition but developed distinct characteristics.
Petrarchan sonnet: Originated in Italy during the 14th century, associated with the poetry of Petrarch (Francesco Petrarca) and became a prominent form in European literature.
While Shakespearean and Petrarchan sonnets share some similarities in structure and purpose, they differ in their specific patterns, themes, language, and cultural context.