SONNETS

WHAT MAKES A SONNET

Untitled Slide

• Challenges English poets by complexity
• Originated in Italy during 14th century
• Sonnet means "little song"

PETRARCHAN(1304-1374)

• Italian/ Petrarchan sonnets
• We're peer medium for expression of emotion

THOMAS WYATT

• The English sonnet began w/ Thomas Wyatt (1503-1542)
• He wrote for Anne Boleyn.
• Was a modification to Italian Sonnet

Henry Howard (1517-1547)

• Changed distinguished English sonnets from Italian sonnets

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

• The English form ultimately became known as the Shakespearean sonnet
• b/c he used it w/ such distinction

WHAT SHAKESPEARE DID

• More freedom in his versification
• Expanded sonnet conventions
• Didn't limit the subject
• Introduced deep philosophical issues and perplexing ironies

SHAKESPEARE REMAINS THE MASTER OF SONNETS!