Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What is the definition of pentameter in poetry?

1. A verse written in five-foot lines.

2. A poetic form consisting of four rhymed lines.

3. A verse that explores deep emotional themes.

4. A style characterized by free verse and no fixed meter.

The correct answer is: A verse written in five-foot lines.

Pentameter is defined as a verse written in five-foot lines, which encompasses a specific rhythmic structure in poetry. Each "foot" in this context typically consists of a combination of stressed and unstressed syllables. The most common form of pentameter in English poetry is iambic pentameter, where each line contains five iambs—a metrical foot consisting of one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable. This rhythmic pattern creates a natural and flowing rhythm, making it a popular choice for many classic poets, including Shakespeare and Milton. The other options describe different poetic forms or styles that do not relate to the specific characteristic of pentameter. A form consisting of four rhymed lines refers to a quatrain, while a verse exploring deep emotional themes does not inherently define pentameter. Similarly, a style characterized by free verse does not adhere to any strict meter, which is quite the opposite of what pentameter represents.