How is a Shakespearean sonnet structured?

• A. Two quatrains and a tercet
• B. Three quatrains followed by a couplet
• C. One quatrain and one octave
• D. Only a single stanza

Answer: (B)

A Shakespearean sonnet is structured with three quatrains followed by a final couplet, making it a 14-line poem in total. Each quatrain typically contains four lines and follows a specific rhyme scheme of ABAB CDCD EFEF, while the concluding couplet has a rhyme scheme of GG. This structure allows for the development of a theme or argument over the three quatrains, culminating in a resolution or twist in the final couplet. The organization of these quatrains and couplet is crucial for the rhythmic and thematic progression found in Shakespeare's work, illustrating his skill in crafting intricate layers of meaning within a concise format. This clear layout distinguishes the Shakespearean sonnet from other forms, such as the Petrarchan sonnet, which consists of an octave and a sestet.