FORMAL AND STYLISTIC PECULIARITIES OF THE SONNET GENRE IN THE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE AND PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY

Abstract

This article provides a comparative analysis of the formal and stylistic features of the sonnet genre in the works of William Shakespeare and Percy Bysshe Shelley. The introduction highlights the relevance of the topic, emphasizing the development of the sonnet tradition in English literature across the Classical and Romantic periods. The methodology section is based on comparative literary analysis using both English and international scholarly sources. The results section examines Shakespeare’s adherence to the traditional 14-line structure, the characteristic rhyme scheme (abab cdcd efef gg), and his use of dramatic inner dialogue. In contrast, Shelley’s sonnets are characterized by a more flexible syntactic structure, a stronger Romantic spirit, and a pronounced philosophical-lyrical expression. The discussion highlights Shakespeare’s consolidation of the classical sonnet tradition and Shelley’s transformation of the form in accordance with Romantic aesthetics. The findings demonstrate that both poets played a significant role in the evolution of the sonnet genre, with Shakespeare emphasizing structural stability and Shelley enhancing emotional and ideological freedom. This comparative study contributes to a deeper understanding of the development of the English sonnet tradition.