What is the difference between shakespearean verse and prose

Verse is obviously used in poetry , but it is also used in some theatrical genres as well as in song lyrics. Moreover, "verse" is often used as a synonym for "poetry", but it isn't exactly the same, as the latter is a literary genre while the former is a form of language.

Taking everything into consideration, the main differences between prose and verse are the following:. Both prose and verse can have figures of speech , and both can be either written or spoken.

While some people may tell you that novels are written in prose and poems are written in verse, this explanation is too simple. There are prose poems that use this "natural" language form while making the most of poetic devices such as figures of speech and symbols. Haikus are poems written in prose. Verse is usually used in poems, but it is also used to write verse or poetic drama.

This style was very popular centuries ago, from Ancient Greece to Romantic works such as Faust. Although verse drama is rare nowadays, some playwright still use it. One of the greatest writers of all time, William Shakespeare , wrote in dramatic verse. The interesting thing is that he combined verse with prose; he used both rhymed and blank unrhymed verse and prose, and the contrast between the two forms portrayed the tensions and differences between characters. Shakespeare set "ordinary" and comic dialogue in prose , especially when it came from lower-status characters, while high-minded tragedy, profound emotions, reflections and ironic observations are written in verse.

It is important to note that prose wasn't less important, as it was used in key passages of the plays and to represent both relief and madness. Answered by Spencer C. Answered by Carolina G. Answered by Helena K. Answered by Elise H. Rhymed verse in Shakespeare's plays is usually in rhymed couplets , i. The rhyme pattern of verse in rhyming couplets is conventionally represented aa bb cc etc.

A single rhymed couplet may also appear at the end of a speech or scene in blank verse, in which case it is called a capping couplet. When the two lines of a rhyming couplet are in iambic pentameter , they are called heroic couplets. Teacher Mode unlocks the character profile content and provides access to additional resources and activities. These are available on the Teachers' Notes page. The resources offered support delivery of the English Programme of Study for speaking and listening, reading and writing.

The Progression Statements indicate the progression in knowledge, understanding and skills in five areas of study:. Back Verse and Prose. How characters speak to one another and to the audience What is prose , and how is it different to poetry? Let her awhile be secretly kept in, And publish it that she is dead indeed. What fire is in mine ears? Can this be true? Stand I condemned for pride and scorn so much? Contempt, farewell, and maiden pride, adieu!

No glory lives behind the back of such. And Benedick, love on. I will requite thee, Taming my wild heart to thy loving hand. If thou dost love, my kindness shall incite thee To bind our loves up in a holy band.