As we learned in class and from the reading, both the metrical template and the correspondence rules for iambic pentameter are quite simple. The basic idea of the correspondence rules is that the primary stressed syllable of a polysyllabic word must fall on the strong position of the template. Monosyllabic words can appear in both strong and weak positions. This simple characterization leaves a lot of the properties of iambic meter as it actually appears in verse out of account. For example, we can ask whether all monosyllables are equally likely to be found in strong versus weak positions (S versus W). Answering that question is the goal of this exercise.
Your tasks are as follows:
First, choose 150 lines from any Shakespeare play and scan them according to iambic pentameter meter, as discussed by Fabb. Don't forget that line-initial feet and feet after a pause can be inverted. To the extent possible, choose a set of long speeches that add up to 150 lines and scan whole speeches. How many violations of the metrical template/correspondence rules do you find? List them.
Second, look at the monosyllabic words in the scanned lines and try to determine what factors influence the likelihood that a monosyllable will appear in S versus W position. Consider such factors as part of speech and pronunciation, along with whatever else seems relevant.
Present your results in the following format: