What is the difference between sonnet and epic poem?

A sonnet is a 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and structure. It is typically written in iambic pentameter, which is a meter consisting of ten syllables per line, with the stressed syllables falling on the first, third, fifth, seventh, and ninth syllables. Sonnets often explore a single theme or idea and are known for their lyrical and emotional qualities.

An epic poem, on the other hand, is a long narrative poem that tells the story of a hero or group of heroes. Epic poems are typically written in dactylic hexameter, which is a meter consisting of six feet, each consisting of a long syllable followed by two short syllables. Epic poems often deal with themes of war, heroism, and the human condition, and are known for their grand scale and dramatic storytelling.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between a sonnet and an epic poem:

| Feature | Sonnet | Epic Poem |

|---|---|---|

| Length | 14 lines | Long narrative poem |

| Meter | Iambic pentameter | Dactylic hexameter |

| Structure | Specific rhyme scheme and structure | Varies |

| Content | Explores a single theme or idea | Tells the story of a hero or group of heroes |

| Focus | Lyrical and emotional | Dramatic and heroic |

In general, sonnets are shorter, more compact, and more lyrical than epic poems. Epic poems are longer, more narrative, and more dramatic than sonnets.