<P> There is some debate over whether works such as Shakespeare's were originally performed with the rhythm prominent, or whether the rhythm was embedded in the patterns of contemporary speech . In either case, when read aloud, such verse naturally follows an iambic beat . Scholars have explained that there are few stage directions in Shakespeare "because the verse serves that purpose . The dramatic action of the lines is related to the physical action required ." </P> <P> The rhythm of iambic pentameter was emphasised in Kenneth Branagh's 2000 production of Love's Labour's Lost, in a scene where the protagonists tap - dance to the "Have at you now, affection's men - at - arms" speech . In this case, each iamb is underscored with a flap step . </P>

What type of poem consists of fourteen lines of iambic pentameter