What are the two main parts of a Petrarchan sonnet?

A Petrarchan sonnet consists of two main parts: the octave and the sestet. The octave is typically the first eight lines, which often present a problem, situation, or emotional state. It sets up the theme or question of the poem. Following this, the sestet consists of six lines that respond to the octave, providing resolution, reflection, or a counterargument. This structure allows the poet to explore a theme in depth, facilitating a shift in perspective or tone between the two sections. The organization into an octave and sestet is fundamental to the Petrarchan sonnet form, making it distinct from other sonnet types, such as the Shakespearean sonnet, which features three quatrains followed by a couplet.