Why Did Shakespeare Use Blank Verse in His Plays?

For centuries, William Shakespeare has been celebrated as one of the greatest playwrights in the English language. However, a key question often arises: why did Shakespeare opt for blank verse instead of rhyming couplets, a technique commonly used by his contemporaries? This article explores the reasons behind his choice and how it influenced his plays.

Comparing Blank Verse and Rhyming Couplets

The most notable and humble assertion that Shakespeare used blank verse can be seen in the works of Christopher Marlowe, another renowned playwright of the same era. Marlowe, along with his “mighty line,” greatly impacted the English theater scene, demonstrating that blank verse was not only innovative but also effective. It was during Shakespeare's time that couplets were gradually becoming outdated. This transitional period is where we find Shakespeare's decision to use blank verse in his longer dramatic works, such as A Midsummer Night's Dream. The inset play in this work uses couplets intentionally to elevate it to a lower register, while Shakespeare himself largely avoided this form.

The Purpose of Blank Verse

Writing in blank verse serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, it aids in memorization. Memorizing lines in blank verse is easier due to its natural rhythm, which can adapt to the flow of conversation. This rhythmic quality prevents the stilted nature that can occur when playing with rhymes. Blank verse also helps actors know where to emphasize certain words and even pronounce them correctly, as many words have evolved over time.

Shakespeare's use of blank verse also carries deeper significance. It can reveal insights into the characters and the situations they find themselves in. For instance, in Henry IV Part 2, act 2, scene 4, a tavern scene shifts to blank verse when a character named Pistol enters. Despite his casual demeanor, this shift to verse signals his aspiration to sound more educated and impressive, despite his lower social standing. Contrast this with the intimate and serious scene in Henry IV Part 1, act 3, scenes 2 and 3, where Prince Henry and his father, King Henry IV, engage in a conversation in blank verse despite their close relationship. This suggests a tension between respect and social rank, as the royal father wishes his son could be more like the noble Hotspur.

Transformation Through Blank Verse

Blank verse often indicates a significant moment of transformation for a character. In Henry IV Part 1, act 5, scene 3, after a long period of dialogue in prose, Prince Henry shifts to blank verse when he speaks to his mentor, Falstaff, on the eve of a critical battle. This shift underscores his readiness to take on the mantle of kingship, even with his missteps and quirks. The transition from prose to verse, and back again, thus conveys the dynamic nature of character development and the progression of a narrative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shakespeare's use of blank verse was a deliberate choice that served both practical and artistic purposes. It simplified memorization, conveyed character development, and marked significant moments in the narrative. Shakespeare's plays, therefore, represent a blend of various poetic forms, tailored to fit the unique context of each scene. Whether in sonnets, prose, or blank verse, his work remains a testament to his innovative and profound understanding of the English language and the human experience.