Question

Which of the following best describes the change in tone between the octave and the sestet of Sonnet XIX?

a) The octave is joyful, while the sestet is melancholic.
b) The octave is serious, while the sestet is humorous.
c) The octave is pessimistic, while the sestet is optimistic.
d) The octave is dark, while the sestet is light.

Answer 1

The tone change in a traditional sonnet, such as Sonnet XIX, generally transitions from pessimistic in the octave to optimistic in the sestet, facilitated by the volta. The correct answer is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The change in tone between the octave and the sestet in Sonnet XIX is best described as:

c) The octave is pessimistic, while the sestet is optimistic.

In traditional sonnet structures, the octave often introduces a problem, question, or situation which is then addressed or resolved in the sestet. The transition between these two parts of the sonnet is known as the volta, or the turn. A Petrarchan sonnet in particular usually follows this pattern with a specific rhyme scheme for the octave (abba abba) and a varying rhyme scheme for the sestet. A typical shift in tone from the octave to the sestet is from a more negative or questioning attitude to a more positive or resolved tone, which is what is observed between the octave and the sestet of Sonnet XIX. The correct answer is C.

Answer 2

The tone shift in Sonnet XIX occurs from a pessimistic octave to an optimistic sestet, with a volta marking the turn in thought. This structure is characteristic of sonnets, where the sestet often resolves or reflects on the octave's tension.

Step-by-step explanation:

The change in tone between the octave and the sestet of Sonnet XIX is best described as the octave being pessimistic, while the sestet is optimistic. This shift is commonly seen in sonnet structures, where the octave typically introduces a problem or sets a gloomy, serious, or pessimistic tone, which then sees a transition or volta. The sestet follows this turn and generally presents a resolution, reflection, or shift to a more positive or hopeful tone. The volta often occurs at the beginning of the sestet but can also appear earlier, signaling the change in direction of the sonnet's argument or theme.

As illustrated in Design by Robert Frost, a sonnet utilizing the Italian (or Petrarchan) form, there is an expected pattern. The octave presents a situation that is often dark or questioning, such as the white spider killing a white moth. The volta then introduces a shift, leading to the sestet, which explores the implications or answers the questions posed in the octave. In Frost's case, this turn doesn't lead to resolution but instead, further contemplation. Nevertheless, the change in tone anticipated at the volta is a defining characteristic of sonnet structure, whether the resolution is clear-cut optimism or remains contemplative.