How does Shakespeare's iambic pentameter work with Original Pronunciation?

Question

In school, students are often taught about iambic pentameter via [Shakespearian examples](http://shakespeare.about.com/od/shakespeareslanguage/a/Iambic-Pentameter-Examples.htm). These, however, were based on the Received Pronunciation (RP) reading of Shakespeare's works. In reality, [Shakespeare used an entirely different pronunciation](http://originalpronunciation.com/), replete with differences which removed syllables relative to Received Pronunciation. Take the first stanza of Romeo and Juliet: > Two households, both alike in dignity, > In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, > From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, > Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean. > From forth the fatal loins of these two foes > A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life; Compare with the OP of the stanza: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN6cDvKjxw4 How can iambic pentameter possibly work when the syllables that are meant to be stressed aren't even present?

Answer 1

The point of IP isn't just the pronunciation, but the rhythm, which matches a heartbeat, regular stepping, or any other process which aids in memorization. Plays, unlike TV or movies don't get retakes. Memory, when combined with rhythm allows for faster memorization, which is crucial for live performance.