Which of the following is a characteristic of Shakespeare's sonnets?

A. Two four-line stanzas concluded by a two-line stanza.
B. Three four-line stanzas concluded by two two-line stanzas.
C. Two four-line stanzas concluded by three two-line stanzas.
D. Three four-line stanzas concluded by a two-line stanza.

Shakespeare's sonnets typically consist of three four-line stanzas followed by a two-line stanza, known as the Shakespearean sonnet form. This structure allows the poet to develop a theme and provide a resolution in the final couplet. An example is found in Sonnet 18, which illustrates this form effectively.

Explanation:

Characteristics of Shakespeare's Sonnets

Shakespeare's sonnets are a distinct form of poetry that contain 14 lines. One key characteristic of his sonnets is their structure, which typically follows the pattern of three four-line stanzas (quatrains) followed by a two-line stanza (couplet). This is known as the Shakespearean sonnet form, and it is important to note that the rhyme scheme usually follows the pattern of ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

To elaborate further:

Three four-line stanzas – Each quatrain introduces a different aspect of the theme or argument.
Two-line stanza – The final couplet offers a resolution or a twist to the preceding quatrains.

For instance, one of Shakespeare's most famous sonnets, Sonnet 18, follows this structure effectively. In it, he compares a beloved to a summer's day, exploring themes of beauty and immortality through the transition from quatrains to a concluding couplet.

Learn more about Shakespeare's sonnet structure here:

https://brainly.com/question/43273018