The Italian and English sonnets share several common features:
Number of Lines: Both sonnets consist of 14 lines.
Verse Form: Both forms are written in iambic pentameter, a meter consisting of ten syllables, alternating between unstressed and stressed syllables.
Rhyme Scheme: While they differ in specific rhyme schemes, both employ a consistent pattern of rhymes throughout the sonnet.
Division of Stanzas: Both forms are divided into two stanzas: an eight-line stanza, known as the octave, followed by a six-line stanza known as the sestet in Italian sonnets and the three quatrains followed by a couplet in English sonnets.
Expression of Emotions and Themes: Both forms frequently express intense emotions and complex themes such as love, loss, nature, morality, and the power of time.
Historical Influence: Both sonnets have a rich history and have influenced countless poets over the centuries.
Specific Differences:
While they share these similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two forms:
Rhyme Scheme: The rhyme scheme of the Italian sonnet is typically ABBA ABBA CDCDCD or CDECDE, while the English sonnet follows the ABAB CDCD EFEF GG pattern.
Tone and Structure: Italian sonnets often feature a shift or "turn" in tone or subject matter between the octave and the sestet, while the English sonnet maintains a consistent tone throughout the fourteen lines.
Popularity: The English sonnet became the dominant form of the sonnet in English poetry, while the Italian sonnet saw less frequent use.
In summary, while the Italian and English sonnets share certain structural and thematic elements, they exhibit different rhyme schemes, tones, and levels of popularity within English poetic traditions.