Name _________________________________________

Sonnet Structure and Meaning Worksheet

Directions: Examining a sonnet’s structure can help unlock its meaning. Use the following process to help you deepen your understanding of your chosen Edmond Spenser sonnet (British Literature p. 189).

Sonnet Structure: Is it an Italian or English sonnet? _____________________________

1. Identify the rhyme scheme –

Paraphrase the poem: Paraphrase the material within each stanza

Based on your stanza paraphrases, write a sentence or two summarizing the overall idea of the poem

Structure and Meaning: Synthesize your paragraph and analysis of structure in order to find how your sonnet’s structure supports its development of thought.

1. How does the pattern of thought parallel the structure? Do the ideas fit neatly into the English or Italian sonnet’s development? Explain how the flow of ideas in the sonnet connect.

2. Consider imagery in your analysis of thought development. Point out any imagery.

Theme and Artistry: Finalize your conclusions about the poet’s primary message and note its effective artistry.

1. Interpret any major images or figurative expressions such as metaphors and allusions.

2. Identify any rhetorical/literary devices (parallelism, repetition, alliteration, apostrophe, etc.

3. Identify the tone.

4. Give a final statement of the poem’s overall message.