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Why Shakespeare loved iambic pentameter - David T. Freeman and Gregory Taylor

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TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Shakespeare sometimes gets a bad rap in high schools for his complex plots and antiquated language. But a quick peek into the rhythm of his words reveals a poet deeply rooted in the way people spoke in his time — and still speak today. Why do Shakespeare’s words have such staying power? David T. Freeman and Gregory Taylor uncover the power of iambic pentameter.

Which of these lines is NOT in iambic pentameter?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator David T. Freeman, Gregory Taylor
  • Director Brad Purnell
  • Sound Designer Ross Allchurch
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Narrator Dan Simpson

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