Shakespeare's Plot and Structure
Shakespeare uses iambic pentameter and the five-act structure to create rhythmically dramatic pieces. Shakespeare is noted to be one of the most iconic iambic pentameter writers. Every one of his 38 plays includes iambic pentameter and the five-act structure. His writing style develops a unique rhythm in words and a consistent climax pattern. This style of writing resembles a more regular way of speaking that enables a variety of tones, engaging the audience throughout the play.
Shakespeare was infamous for his works to be inspired by other writers during his time. Geoffrey Chaucer created the iambic pentameter in the 1380s, but Shakespeare, Milton, and Wordsworth were more notorious for it. Iambic pentameter is a poetic device typically consisting of ten syllables, a decasyllabic verse, where a long syllable follows each short syllable. It creates a rhythm of *da DUM da DUM da DUM.* This poetic style resembles the natural speaking patterns of the English language. Some of the most infamous iambic pentameter quotes are "shall I compare thee to a summer's day,"(Shakespeare, Sonnet 18, pg. 1) "to be or not to be," (Shakespeare, Hamlet, III.I) or "if music be the food of love play on." (Shakespeare, Twelfth Night, pg. 1) Shakespeare's first sonnet and poem were written in 1592 and 1593. These were his first works, including this newly used writing device. Iambic pentameter sets a rhythm. This rhythm can help the plot advance by influencing the pacing of scenes, and it adds a sense of regularity to the language. This makes the piece flow, and it becomes more memorable. Shakespeare uses this speaking pattern to connect to a familiar language while entwining poetic elements to create a structural and formal poem.
By using the five-act structure, Shakespeare can increase intense emotions throughout the first three acts before he reaches the central plot conflict. A five-act structure includes a prologue, conflict, rising action (climax), falling action, and denouement. Meanwhile, a three-act structure is limited to the setup, confrontation, and resolution. The five-act structure can include time for a greater build-up, while the three-act structure builds tension and quickly falls flat in the last act. Shakespeare uses this technique to emphasize each act with a purpose, providing a clear progression to the audience and creating anticipation and resolution at critical moments throughout the plays. Another key development is seen in the characters. As the suspense is built throughout the acts, the story has a more emotional impact, creating complex character arc development. Besides being famous for his writing styles, Shakespeare is known for his character development. By creating his works with a distinct structure, he can perfectly craft each part of the story. Everything has a meticulous design.
Shakespeare was known to take the writing styles of many others and convert them into his signature. This was a common trade back then, but Shakespeare had a unique style of writing that made his works better than the rest. Now, he is known as the Father of English Literature.