Short Answer 
A sonnet is a 14-line poem written in iambic pentameter, often conveying complex emotions. Shakespearean sonnets consist of three quatrains and a final couplet, following the rhyme scheme ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, with key terms such as quatrains, couplets, iambs, and pentameter being essential for understanding their structure.
Step 1: Understand the Structure of a Sonnet
A sonnet is a type of poem that comprises fourteen lines written in iambic pentameter. Each line typically contains *five metrical feet*, where each foot consists of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one. The distinct structure of a sonnet enables it to convey complex emotions and ideas effectively.
Step 2: Learn About Shakespearean Sonnets
William Shakespeare is renowned for his unique style of sonnets, known as Shakespearean sonnets. These poems are characterized by their three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet (two-line stanza). The rhyme scheme of these sonnets follows the pattern: ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, which adds musicality and depth to the verses.
Step 3: Identify Key Terms Related to Sonnets
To fully appreciate sonnets, it’s crucial to grasp some literary terms associated with their composition:
- Quatrain: A stanza of four lines.
- Couplet: A pair of lines, usually rhymed.
- Iamb: A metrical foot with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.
- Pentameter: A line containing five metrical feet.