I have been studying Petrarchan sonnets. I have already posted a question on three sonnets I am reading about rhyme scheme and volta. I reviewed the websites given and I also did an internet search of my own on Petrarchan sonnets. I have come to the conclusion that all petrarchan sonnets are iambic pentameter and that the volta occurs between lines 8 and 9. Would my conclusions be correct? Thank you for all the help.
Yes, you are correct.
I had to read this to make sure:
http://www.sonnets.org/basicforms.htm
Based on your research on Petrarchan sonnets, it seems like you've made some correct observations, but there are a few clarifications to make.
1. Rhyme Scheme: Petrarchan sonnets typically follow a specific rhyme scheme. The most common Petrarchan sonnet rhyme scheme is ABBA ABBA CDC DCD, which divides the sonnet into an octave (the first eight lines) and a sestet (the last six lines). However, variations of the rhyme scheme can exist as well, as long as there are two distinct sections.
2. Meter: Petrarchan sonnets often follow iambic pentameter, which means each line consists of five pairs of syllables, with the stress falling on the second syllable of each pair. However, the use of meter is not a strict rule in Petrarchan sonnets. While many sonnets do employ iambic pentameter, some may deviate from it.
3. Volta: The Petrarchan sonnet traditionally contains a volta, which is a turn or shift in the poem's tone, theme, or perspective. This volta typically occurs between the octave and the sestet, dividing the sonnet into two parts. However, remember that the volta does not have to be exactly between lines 8 and 9. It can appear anywhere within the sonnet but is commonly found around that location.
To summarize, your conclusion that Petrarchan sonnets generally follow iambic pentameter and often include a volta between the octave and sestet is correct. Yet, keep in mind that there can be variations in the rhyme scheme, exceptions to the meter, and the volta's specific placement within the sonnet.