Understanding Sonnets

A sonnet is a line poem with a variable rhyme scheme originating in Italy and brought to England by Sir Thomas Wyatt and Henry Howard, earl of Surrey in the 16th century. Literally a “little song,” the sonnet traditionally reflects upon a single sentiment, with a clarification or “turn” of thought in its concluding lines.

This type of sonnet was perfected by Francesco di Petracco, or Petrarch, a scholar from Arezzo and poet of the early Italian Renaissance, as well as one of the earliest humanists.

This type of sonnet was perfected by the English playwright, poet and actor, William Shakespeare who is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist

Using video, notes and exercises of composition both analysis and poetic, this course will help you become familiar with this great poetic art form.