Shakespearean pronunciation can be a tricky beast! One sound that often stumps modern readers and actors is the pronunciation of the word "eye." This article will explore the practical routines you can use to master this seemingly simple word and unlock a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's language.
Understanding the Historical Context
Before diving into pronunciation routines, it's crucial to understand the historical context. The pronunciation of English, especially vowels, has shifted dramatically since Shakespeare's time. The "eye" we pronounce today, with a long "I" sound (/aɪ/), wasn't the same in the Elizabethan era.
The Great Vowel Shift
The Great Vowel Shift, a major change in pronunciation of long vowels in English, occurred gradually between the 14th and 18th centuries. This means the "eye" of Shakespeare's time didn't sound like our modern pronunciation.
How Shakespeare Likely Pronounced "Eye"
Shakespeare and his contemporaries likely pronounced "eye" with a sound closer to the modern pronunciation of "ee" as in "see" (/iː/). This was a more open, pure vowel sound than the diphthong we use today.
Practical Routines for Pronunciation
Now for the fun part – the practical exercises to help you nail that Shakespearean "eye"!
1. Listen and Repeat
- Find audio recordings: Search for recordings of Shakespearean plays performed by reputable actors. Pay close attention to how they pronounce "eye."
- Mimic the sounds: Try to mimic their pronunciation. Don't worry about perfection at first; focus on capturing the essence of the sound.
- Record yourself: Recording yourself and comparing it to professional recordings will help you identify areas for improvement.
2. Focus on the Vowel
- Isolate the vowel: Practice saying the vowel sound /iː/ (as in "see") repeatedly. Focus on the feeling of the sound in your mouth and throat.
- Vary the intensity: Experiment with slightly varying the intensity and length of the vowel to find a pronunciation that feels natural and comfortable within the context of the sentence.
3. Practice in Context
- Read Shakespeare aloud: Incorporate the word "eye" into your reading of Shakespearean sonnets or plays. This will help you understand the nuances of pronunciation within a larger linguistic context.
- Work with a partner: Reading aloud with a partner or joining a Shakespearean acting group can provide valuable feedback and support.
4. Embrace the Subtleties
Remember, there's no single "correct" pronunciation of "eye" in Shakespeare. Variations existed even during Shakespeare's time, depending on regional dialects and individual speech patterns. The key is to develop a pronunciation that is both historically informed and artistically effective.
Beyond "Eye": Expanding Your Shakespearean Pronunciation
Mastering the pronunciation of "eye" is just the beginning! Expanding your understanding of Shakespearean pronunciation will significantly enhance your appreciation and interpretation of the plays. Consider exploring resources on the Great Vowel Shift and other key pronunciation changes from the Elizabethan era.
By diligently practicing these routines and immersing yourself in the sounds of Shakespearean English, you'll be well on your way to authentically and effectively pronouncing "eye" and other challenging words from the Bard’s works. Happy practicing!
