Alexandrine

Definition

An alexandrine is a line of poetic verse that consists of twelve syllables, traditionally divided into two hemistichs of six syllables each. This structure allows for a rhythmic and melodic quality in poetry, which has been utilized by various poets throughout history, including those in Spanish-language literature. The alexandrine became particularly influential during the late 19th century, aligning with the literary movement that aimed to renovate and elevate Spanish poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The alexandrine was popularized in Spanish poetry by Rubén Darío, who used it to enhance the musicality and expressiveness of his work.
2. This poetic form often employs enjambment, allowing thoughts to flow from one line to another without punctuation interruptions.
3. In Darío's hands, the alexandrine was not just a form but a means of emotional expression and artistic innovation within modernismo.
4. The flexibility of the alexandrine allows poets to incorporate varying rhythms and pauses, contributing to its versatility in different poetic styles.
5. Many of Darío's contemporaries adopted the alexandrine, leading to its widespread use in the early 20th century as a hallmark of modern Spanish-language poetry.

Review Questions

• How did Rubén Darío's use of the alexandrine contribute to the modernization of Spanish-language poetry?
  • Rubén Darío's incorporation of the alexandrine into his poetry marked a significant shift toward modernizing Spanish-language verse. By utilizing this twelve-syllable structure, he created a new rhythm and musicality that resonated with readers and poets alike. This experimentation with form allowed Darío to express complex emotions and themes, setting the stage for future poets to explore similar innovations in their work.
• Analyze the role of the alexandrine within the modernismo movement and its impact on poetic expression.
  • Within the modernismo movement, the alexandrine served as a crucial tool for poets seeking to elevate their craft. Its rhythmic qualities enabled a more profound exploration of aesthetic beauty and symbolic meaning. By embracing this form, poets like Darío pushed boundaries and challenged traditional norms, which ultimately transformed poetic expression in Spanish literature during this era.
• Evaluate how the characteristics of the alexandrine reflect broader trends in 19th-century literature and their relevance today.
  • The characteristics of the alexandrine reflect broader trends in 19th-century literature by emphasizing musicality, emotional depth, and innovative forms that broke away from classical constraints. This trend aligns with movements focused on individual expression and aesthetic experimentation. Today, the legacy of the alexandrine can still be seen in contemporary poetry that values both structure and fluidity, showcasing its lasting relevance in literary exploration.

Related terms

hemistich: A half-line of verse, which in the context of an alexandrine, refers to the two segments of six syllables each.

modernismo: A literary movement that emerged in Latin America in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on aesthetics, symbolism, and the use of forms like the alexandrine.

meter: The rhythmic structure of verses in poetry, which can include various patterns such as the alexandrine, influencing how a poem is read and understood.