Question

Which statement about Shakespeare's sonnets is true?

A. Shakespeare invented the sonnet form.
B. Shakespeare avoids figurative language in his sonnets.
C. Shakespeare uses a specific rhyme scheme in his sonnets.
D. Shakespeare takes Petrarch's themes seriously.

Answer 1

The true statement about Shakespeare's sonnets is that he uses a specific rhyme scheme: abab, cdcd, efef, gg. Shakespeare did not invent the sonnet form but used and made famous the Shakespearean rhyme scheme, and his sonnets are known for employing rich figurative language and exploring varied themes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, it is C. Shakespeare uses a specific rhyme scheme in his sonnets that is a true statement. This rhyme scheme is abab, cdcd, efef, gg and is known as the Shakespearean or English sonnet. This format is distinctly different from the Spenserian and the Italian, or Petrarchan sonnet forms, which have their own unique rhyme schemes.

It is important to note that Shakespeare did not invent the sonnet form. Instead, he adopted and perhaps perfected it. Shakespeare's sonnets also frequently employ figurative language, which is often used to express complex emotions and ideas, particularly those concerning love and human experiences. Unlike the suggestions of Petrarch, whose themes were often idealizing and unattainable love, Shakespeare's themes in his sonnets can be considered more varied and nuanced.

Therefore, it's evident that a fundamental attribute of Shakespeare's sonnets is the adherence to a specific structure and rhyme scheme that unleashes the poet's creativity within these constraints, rather than the absence of figurative language or the true imitation of Petrarch's themes.

Answer 2

The correct answer is C. Shakespeare uses a specific rhyme scheme in his sonnets.

He uses the famous English Sonnet meter and rhyme, which was not his invention. He uses figurative language a lot and he does not take Petrarch's themes seriously, sometimes even writing in a negative manner which is somehow positive, such as: "My mistresses eyes are nothing like the sun" which is not something Petrarch would write.