Iambic Pentameter

Front

What is Iambic Pentameter?

Back

A metrical pattern in poetry consisting of five iambs (unstressed-stressed syllables) per line.

Front

What is an iamb?

Back

A metrical foot consisting of one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable.

Front

How many syllables are in a line of iambic pentameter?

Back

Ten syllables.

Front

What is the effect of breaking iambic pentameter?

Back

It draws attention to a specific line or idea.

Front

Who is known for using iambic pentameter extensively?

Back

William Shakespeare.

Front

What is the rhyme scheme often associated with iambic pentameter?

Back

Commonly used in sonnets, often ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

Front

Can iambic pentameter be varied?

Back

Yes, poets can vary the meter for effect.

Front

What is the difference between iambic pentameter and trochaic tetrameter?

Back

Iambic pentameter has an unstressed-stressed pattern, while trochaic tetrameter has a stressed-unstressed pattern.

Front

What is an example of a line in iambic pentameter?

Back

"Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?"

Front

What is the significance of iambic pentameter in English literature?

Back

It is a foundational meter that shapes the rhythm and flow of many English poems and plays.