Question

Why did Shakespeare use iambic pentameter for the dialogue of noble characters, while commoners often spoke in blank verse or prose? A. To show the difference between an educated, refined noble class and coarse, crude commoners B. To teach lower-class audience members how to speak better C. To show his respect for the upper classes and let them know that he was one of them D. To make fun of the upper classes for the snobby and silly way they speak

Answer 1

The correct answer would be A. To show the difference between an educated, refined noble class and coarse, crude commoners. However, this doesn't mean that Shakespeare resented the commoners. It was a self-explanatory fact that the nobles and educated were refined enough to use iambic pentameter in talking to each other - but this has many exceptions too; there are many moments in his plays when the nobles use prose or blank verse, for example when they are chatting to each other or are intoxicated. However, Shakespeare's blank verse and prose, though devoid of contemporary poetic mannerisms, are extremely witty and rich in meaning and associations.

Answer 2

Shakespeare used iambic pentameter for the dialogue of noble characters to show the difference between an educated, refined noble class and coarse, crude commoners. During the times of Shakespeare, the noble class were highly respected and he wanted to display that importance in his writings. By using iambic parameters, the readers tend to believe the noble class had highest class of education and their statements were refined with honor, while the commoners were given blank verses or prose to show how low their class is compared to the noble people.