Which form is characterized by an octave of eight lines followed by a sestet of six lines?

Which form is characterized by an octave of eight lines followed by a sestet of six lines?

• A. Haiku
• B. Limerick
• C. Petrarchan
• D. Culture to meaning

Answer: (C)

The form described—an eight-line octave followed by a six-line sestet—is the Petrarchan (Italian) sonnet. This two-part structure sets up a idea or problem in the octave and then shifts, often with a volta, to the sestet which offers resolution or commentary. The octave typically follows a rhyme pattern like ABBA ABBA, while the sestet can vary (for example, CDE CDE or CDCDCD). This clear octave-sestet division distinguishes it from other forms: a haiku is three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern; a limerick has five lines with an AABBA rhyme scheme and a humorous twist; and the remaining option isn’t a recognized poetic form.

The form described—an eight-line octave followed by a six-line sestet—is the Petrarchan (Italian) sonnet. This two-part structure sets up a idea or problem in the octave and then shifts, often with a volta, to the sestet which offers resolution or commentary. The octave typically follows a rhyme pattern like ABBA ABBA, while the sestet can vary (for example, CDE CDE or CDCDCD). This clear octave-sestet division distinguishes it from other forms: a haiku is three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern; a limerick has five lines with an AABBA rhyme scheme and a humorous twist; and the remaining option isn’t a recognized poetic form.