Sonnet Tradition · English Literature

Which of the following describes the 'interlocking' rhyme scheme characteristic of the Spenserian sonnet?

  1. abab abab abab cc
  2. abba abba cdcd cd
  3. abab bcbc cdcd ee
  4. abba cddc effe gg
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: abab bcbc cdcd ee

Edmund Spenser's variation links the quatrains by repeating the last rhyme of one quatrain as the first rhyme of the next. This creates a more cohesive and continuous flow throughout the 14 lines.

Difficulty: Medium Question 6 of 20

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