Heidi,

Citterns are the earlier instruments--popular primarily in the 16th &
17th centuries.  They have a more pear-shaped body with a flat back
and straight neck, as opposed to lutes, which have a bent neck and
rounded back.

English guitars are, in some ways, the descendents of the cittern, but
it is incorrect to call them that in the 18th century.  They aren't
much different in body shape, but the necks can be different and tuned
with pegs or with watch-key tuning mechanisms set in the top of the
neck (they were tuned with watch keys--thus the name of the
mechanism).

Your best bet in figuring out the difference is to consult the New
Grove Dictionary of Musical Instruments, which may be available in
your public library or in an academic library near you.

Martha Katz-Hyman

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