Two parts. Analyze a sonnet by Shakespeare or Donne, and then re-write that sonnet as if the author were a student at Seton Hill University.

Recommended reading: Foster "If it's square, it's a sonnet" (22).
Valuable tool: Online rhyme-finder.

I want you to think carefully about every word, so I'm asking you to hand-write this assignment (as neatly as possible). There won't be anything for you to upload.

Part 1

Pick a sonnet by Shakespeare or Donne, copy it out by hand (with blank space between each line), and mark up the text in order to demonstrate your ability to identify such concepts as similar sounds (not rhyme, but also alliteration, assonance, and consonance) ambiguity, tone, and the definitions of unfamiliar words and the significance of any important symbols (animals, flowers, mythological or historical figures, theological concepts). You don't need to write a full essay about this poem -- the notes you make in the margins an between the lines will be enough. Bring this page to class on the due date.

Part 2

Write your own sonnet, borrowing from the theme, tone, and even the language of the original. Turn the poem into something the poet might have written if he had been a student at Seton Hill University. I'm hoping that you'll do more than just throw in casual references to buildings. (You might use an article in The Setonian for your inspiration.)