‘Oft’ is an archaic contraction of the word ‘often.’ In Shakespeare’s time, this term was commonly used in poetry and prose to convey frequency or repetition. For example, when Shakespeare writes ‘oft,’ he is emphasizing that something happens regularly or is customary.
The usage of ‘oft’ can be found throughout many of Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets, adding a lyrical quality to the language. By employing this term, Shakespeare not only enhances the rhythm of his verse but also aligns with the poetic conventions of his era. In modern English, we would simply replace ‘oft’ with ‘often,’ but in the context of Shakespearean literature, the choice of language contributes to the overall artistry and emotional depth of his work.