What distinguishes blank verse from other forms of poetry?

Blank verse is characterized primarily by its use of unrhymed iambic pentameter. This form consists of lines that typically include ten syllables, following a pattern of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. This rhythm mimics natural speech while providing a formal structure that distinguishes it from free verse, which lacks a consistent meter, and from rhymed verse, which has a specific rhyme scheme. The absence of rhyme in blank verse allows for a more flexible expression while still maintaining a rhythmic quality that can elevate the poetic language. This combination of iambic pentameter without rhyme sets blank verse apart from other poetic forms, making it a staple in both classical and modern poetry.