Metric symmetries: Comparing two Sicilian sonnets

Abstract

The paper analyses from the stylistic and metrical point of view, two sonnets composed by two poets of the Sicilian School: Giacomo da Lentini (1.35: Diamante, né smiraldo, né zafino) and Mazzeo Ricco (19.7: Chi conoscesse sì la sua falanza). The study aims to offer a detailed review of the lyrical writing from the Magna Curia authors, in relation to the new metrical form of the sonnet. Specifically, it considers the peculiar compositional practices of the two investigated poets, converging or in opposition to one another, and, more generally, the systemic constants of versification adopted by the Sicilian circle.

Keywords

• Scuola Siciliana
• sonetto
• endecasillabo
• poesia lirica