Romeo and Juliet 1.1 Language: Blank Verse

The video tutorial explores the distinct nature of poetic language, highlighting its use of rhetorical devices, rhythm, and structure. It delves into iambic pentameter, a poetic form characterized by lines with ten syllables and alternating stress. The concept of blank verse, a non-rhyming poetic form prevalent in Shakespeare's plays, is also discussed. The tutorial concludes by providing historical context, explaining that writing plays in poetic form was common in Shakespeare's time.

What are some rhetorical devices mentioned that contribute to the poetic nature of language?

• Alliteration and assonance

• Similes and hyperboles

• Metaphors and imagery

• Personification and irony

How many syllables are typically found in a line of iambic pentameter?

• 9 syllables

• 10 syllables

• 11 syllables

• 8 syllables

What is the term for poetry that does not rhyme?

• Sonnet

• Free verse

• Blank verse

• Limerick

In what form is the majority of Shakespeare's dialogue written?

• Prose

• Haiku

• Blank verse

• Rhymed couplets

Why did Shakespeare's audience not find it strange that his plays were written in poetic form?

• They did not understand prose

• Serious literature was commonly written in verse

• They were used to prose in plays

• They preferred rhyming poetry