PHRASING AND PUNCTUATION
USING THE PHRASING!
In modern text, punctuation is something that is often taken for granted. In Shakespearean text, as in any poetry, punctuation is the key to understanding the meaning. Phrases are identified by different types of punctuation. It is easier to conquer the language by first marking out the phrases on paper before attempting them vocally.
Below is Sonnet Number 27, it has been marked by phrases according to the punctuation given. Remember, phrases end at the punctuation NOT at the end of the line.
After you have marked your phrases you want to go back into the text and look for what is called ANTITHESIS. Antithesis is when you place one idea against another. Shakespeare uses antithesis of thoughts, phrases and words constantly. To really bring the text to life, you must find these antithetical phrases. Below are the first seven lines of the above sonnet. The antithesis has been marked out for you.
Are you starting to see the idea? Within the lines there are opposing ideas set next to one another. Take the next seven lines of the sonnet and mark out the antithesis.
LET’S READ IT!
Now try reading the above sentence aloud. First, look over the chart below. All punctuation in Shakespeare has a distinct meaning. Use the chart below to inform how you should read the above sonnet.
But how do you read antithesis? That’s easy! Set your voice in antithesis to itself! Lift one part by saying it slightly higher in pitch, and say the opposing part of the phrase in a slightly lower pitch. This way you will bring out those opposing ideas and create a fuller phrase. Try saying the line “To be or not to be,” to practice.
NOW TRY IT YOURSELF!
A Collection of Shakespeare's Sonnets
IN THE CLASSROOM
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
• Do you think that phrasing helps to understand the meaning of the text? Why or why not?
• Explain antithesis in your own words.
• Do you think that this method works on modern text? Why or why not?