Understanding the Alexandrine: Poetic Structure Explained

What does alexandrine mean?

• A. A stanza composed of two iambic hexameters.
• B. A long narrative poem.
• C. A fourteen-line poem.
• D. A sonnet.

Answer: (A)

An alexandrine is a type of poetic line composed of two iambic hexameters, each containing six metrical feet. This type of poetic line originated in medieval French poetry and is often used in epic or narrative poems, making option B incorrect. Option C is referring to a sonnet, a type of poem that follows a specific rhyme scheme and structure. While alexandrine lines can be used in sonnets, they are not the defining element of a sonnet, making option D incorrect.

Have you ever stumbled upon a line of poetry that just rolls off the tongue, rich and full of rhythm? That’s the beauty of an alexandrine! So, what exactly is an alexandrine? Well, it’s a poetic line made up of two iambic hexameters—each with six metrical feet. Let’s delve a bit deeper, shall we?