Shakespearean Sonnet Analysis Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the structure of a Shakespearean sonnet?

A Shakespearean sonnet has three quatrains and ends with a couplet.

What is the central idea of Shakespeare's 'Sonnet 100'?

The speaker wants his muse to help him immortalize his love.

In poetry, what does the term 'speaker' refer to?

Narrator.

What is the best paraphrase of line 9 of 'Sonnet 100'?

Get up and look at his lovely face. Signup and view all the answers

How many lines are in a Shakespearean sonnet?

14 Signup and view all the answers

Which context clue best supports the definition of 'belied' as 'contradicted' or 'disproved'?

'false compare' Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best explains the two possible interpretations of 'Sonnet 130'?

The three quatrains satirize common poetic comparisons of one's beloved to beautiful things, suggesting that the speaker's feelings are not strong. However, the sudden reversal in tone in the final couplet surprises and moves through its sincerity and depth of feeling, suggesting strong emotions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a couplet, in the context of a Shakespearean sonnet?

The final two lines. Signup and view all the answers

What is the rhyme scheme of the second quatrain in 'Sonnet 100'?

cdcd Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Structure of Shakespearean Sonnet

Composed of 14 lines
Consists of three quatrains followed by a final couplet

Central Idea of "Sonnet 100"

The speaker implores the muse for inspiration to immortalize his beloved
The theme revolves around the power of love and the passage of time

Definition of Speaker in Poetry

Refers to the narrator or voice behind the poem

Paraphrase of Line 9 in "Sonnet 100"

A request for the muse to rise and admire the beauty of the speaker's love

Context of Lines in "Sonnet 130"

Emphasis on realistic portrayals of love versus idealized comparisons
The term "belied" means contradicted or disproved, reinforced by "false compare"

Interpretations of "Sonnet 130"

The initial quatrains mock typical poetic comparisons to idealized beauty, showcasing a lack of strong emotion
The couplet shifts tone, revealing deep and sincere feelings that contrast earlier cynical views

Definition of Couplet

The concluding two lines of a sonnet which often summarize or provide a twist to the poem's message

Rhyme Scheme of the Second Quatrain in "Sonnet 100"

Follows the rhyme pattern of cdcd, demonstrating the structured nature of Shakespearean sonnets

Description

Explore the intricate structure and themes of Shakespearean sonnets with these flashcards. Delve into 'Sonnet 100' and analyze its meaning and poetic devices. Perfect for literature students and Shakespeare enthusiasts alike.