Question

which is one characteristic of iambic pentameter, which is used in \sonnet 29\?
each line contains twelve syllables.
each line contains ten syllables.
each line contains eight syllables.
each line contains six syllables.

Explanation:

Iambic pentameter is a metrical pattern in poetry. "Pentameter" means five metrical feet, and each iambic foot has two syllables (an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one). So, 5 feet × 2 syllables per foot = 10 syllables per line. This is used in "Sonnet 29" (by Shakespeare, for example). So the correct option is the one stating each line has ten syllables.

Answer:

B. Each line contains ten syllables.