Feminine Rhyme

Definition

Feminine rhyme is a type of rhyme that occurs when the last two syllables of a word or phrase rhyme with the last two syllables of another word or phrase. This rhyme scheme often creates a melodic and flowing effect in poetry, allowing for a nuanced sound pattern that enhances the overall rhythm and emotional tone of the piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feminine rhyme typically occurs in multi-syllable words, contrasting with masculine rhyme, which is based on one-syllable words.
2. In English poetry, feminine rhyme can create a softer or more delicate tone, often used in romantic or lyrical contexts.
3. Feminine rhymes can also be found in couplets and quatrains, providing a consistent flow and connection between lines.
4. This type of rhyme is especially common in certain poetic forms like the ballad or sonnet, where rhythm and meter are essential.
5. Feminine rhyme can enhance the overall emotional impact of a poem by adding layers of sound complexity.

Review Questions

• How does feminine rhyme differ from masculine rhyme in terms of structure and effect?
  • Feminine rhyme involves the rhyming of two syllables at the end of a line, creating a softer sound, while masculine rhyme consists of a single stressed syllable. This structural difference leads to varied effects; feminine rhymes tend to create a more melodic flow and emotional resonance in poetry, making them suitable for themes that require sensitivity and depth.
• What role does feminine rhyme play in establishing the rhyme scheme within a poem, particularly in specific forms like sonnets?
  • In poetry forms like sonnets, feminine rhyme contributes to the overall rhyme scheme by providing a rhythmic balance between lines. For instance, a sonnet may alternate between masculine and feminine rhymes to create tension and resolution within its structure. This combination helps to maintain the poem's musicality while also enhancing its thematic development.
• Evaluate the significance of using feminine rhyme in modern poetry compared to traditional forms, considering how it impacts themes and reader engagement.
  • In modern poetry, the use of feminine rhyme can signify a shift towards more fluidity and experimentation compared to traditional forms. Poets may employ feminine rhymes to break away from rigid structures, allowing for greater emotional expression and complexity. This approach not only enriches the thematic content but also engages readers by inviting them into a more intimate and nuanced auditory experience, reflecting contemporary sensibilities.

Related terms

Masculine Rhyme: A type of rhyme that involves a single stressed syllable at the end of a line, such as 'cat' and 'hat'.

Rhyme Scheme: The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line of a poem, usually described using letters to denote which lines rhyme.

Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words, which can enhance the musical quality of poetry.