What is a volta?
A volta is the "turning point" in a poem, a moment of dramatic shift in tone or theme of the poem. In a Shakespearean sonnet, it can be found anywhere in the second half of the poem, usually within the l. 8-12 bracket. In Petrarch or Sydney's sonnets, it is found uniquely on l. 8.
ZW
Related English Literature IB answers
All answers ▸Compare the dramatic effectiveness of the relationship between setting and plot in two or three plays you have studied
How do I analyse an unseen piece of drama or prose?
How do I answer a question about the presentation of something, like the Ghost in 'Hamlet'?
To what extent are Medea's action's 'monstrous'? Explore the theme of monstrosity in the play.