romeo and juliet essay quotes organizer

50 Important Quotes You Should Pay Attention to in Romeo and Juliet

Looking for good Romeo and Juliet quotes to use in your essay?

We’ve got you! Here are 50 quotes from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet across themes of fate VS free will, love and conflict, and more, that can help you get started on writing your essay.

Dive right into our top quotes below!

Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Fate Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Love Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Death Quotes from Friar Lawrence Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Conflict Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Hate Quotes on The Dangers of Youth and Rebellion

Download our list of Romeo and Juliet quotes now!

Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Fate

#1: From forth the fatal loins of these two foes A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life Technique: Astrological allusion, symbolism, foreshadowing, dramatic irony Characters: Chorus Prologue Analysis: The quote from Romeo and Juliet, “From forth the fatal loins of these two foes, A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life” makes use of several literary techniques that help to create meaning in the play. Astrological allusion refers to the reference to astrology or the stars in the quote. The phrase “star-crossed lovers” suggests that the fates of Romeo and Juliet are tied to the stars, and that their love is doomed from the start due to some cosmic force beyond their control. This allusion serves to heighten the sense of tragedy and inevitability surrounding the lovers’ fate. The use of symbolism in the quote is also noteworthy . The phrase “fatal loins” refers to the families of Romeo and Juliet, who are mortal enemies and whose conflict ultimately leads to the death of the two young lovers. This phrase serves as a symbol for the destructive power of family feuds and the consequences that can result from such conflicts. The quote also makes use of foreshadowing, which is a technique that hints at future events in the story. The phrase “take their life” foreshadows the tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet, which occur later in the play. Finally, the quote also employs dramatic irony , which is a technique in which the audience knows something that the characters do not. In this case, the audience knows that Romeo and Juliet are destined to die, while the characters themselves are unaware of this fact. This creates a sense of tension and suspense, as the audience waits to see how and when the tragic outcome will unfold

#2: I fear, too early, for my mind misgives Some consequence yet hanging in the stars  Technique: Astrological allusion, symbolism, foreshadowing Characters: Romeo M.  Act 1, Scene 4

#3: My grave is like to be my wedding bed.  Technique: Foreshadowing, simile, dark imagery Characters: Juliet C. Act 1, Scene 5

#4: Prodigious birth of love it is to me That I must love a loathed enemy  Technique: Foreshadowing Characters: Juliet C. Act 1, Scene 5

#5: Ask for me to-morrow, And you shall find me a grave man. Technique: Pun, foreshadowing   Characters: Mercutio Act 3, Scene 1

#6: O, I am Fortune’s fool!  Technique: Mythological allusion, metaphor Characters: Romeo Act 3, Scene 1 Analysis: Romeo utters this line after he has killed Tybalt in a fit of anger and realises that his actions have brought about his own downfall. “O, I am Fortune’s fool” is Romeo’s way of saying that he has made a mistake that has brought misfortune upon himself. He believes that he has acted impulsively and that his fate is now controlled by luck or destiny, represented by the concept of “Fortune.” Romeo feels that he has fallen victim to his own emotions and the unpredictable nature of life, and that he is now at the mercy of fate. He is acknowledging that his actions have consequences and that he is responsible for his own downfall. This quote highlights the tragedy of Romeo’s situation and the idea that fate can play a significant role in people’s lives. It also emphasises the idea that Romeo is a tragic hero who is brought down by his own weaknesses and mistakes.

#7: I have an ill-divining soul!  Technique: Symbolism, foreshadowing, emotive language  Characters: Juliet C.  Act 3, Scene 5

#8: Methinks I see thee, now thou art below, As one dead in the bottom of a tomb.  Technique: Foreshadowing, high modality Characters: Juliet C.  Act 3, Scene 5

#9: O Fortune, Fortune! All men call thee fickle If thou art fickle, what dost thou with him That is renown for faith? Be fickle, Fortune.  Technique: Roman mythological allusion, anthropomorphism  Characters: Juliet C.  Act 3, Scene 5

#10: I have a faint cold fear thrills through my veins That almost freezes up the heat of life.  Technique: Metaphor, soliloquy, oxymoron, foreshadowing Characters: Juliet C. Act 4, Scene 3 Analysis:  She is expressing her fear and anxieties about the situation she finds herself in. She feels a cold fear that runs through her veins and almost stops the flow of life within her. The quote highlights the intense and overwhelming nature of Juliet’s fear, which is affecting her physically and emotionally. The “faint cold fear” that Juliet is feeling is likely related to her impending marriage to Paris and her growing love for Romeo. She is aware of the dangerous and potentially deadly consequences of their relationship, and her fear is a reflection of the uncertain and unstable situation she finds herself in. The quote also highlights the idea that love and fear can exist side by side and that intense emotions can have a powerful impact on a person’s well-being.

#11: Then I defy you, stars! Technique: Astrological allusion, symbolism Characters: Romeo M.  Act 5, Scene 1  Analysis:  The quote highlights the idea of Romeo defying fate and the forces of nature. By declaring “Then I defy you, stars!”, he is essentially rejecting the idea that his life is determined by the stars and the alignment of the planets. He believes that his love for Juliet is so strong that it transcends the laws of nature and fate. He is expressing his determination to be reunited with Juliet, despite the obstacles that may stand in his way. The phrase “defy you, stars” is a metaphor for rejecting the idea that our lives are predetermined and controlled by forces beyond our control. Romeo is asserting his agency and his belief that he has the power to shape his own destiny. In conclusion, this quote provides insight into Romeo’s character and his passionate love for Juliet. It highlights the theme of free will and the power of love to overcome obstacles and determine our fate. The metaphor of defying the stars is a powerful and romantic expression of this theme, and a testament to Romeo’s unwavering devotion to Juliet.

#12: O give me thy hand, One write with me in sour misfortune’s book! Technique: Soliloquy, guilty tone Characters: Romeo M. Act 5, Scene 3

#13: A greater power than we can contradict Hath thwarted our intents Technique: Biblical allusion, anthropomorphism  Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 5, Scene 3

#14: O, here Will I set up my everlasting rest, And shake the yoke of inauspicious stars From this world-wearied flesh!  Technique: Celestial allusion, metaphor, dramatic irony Characters: Romeo M. Act 5, Scene 3

Quotes about Love

#15: Love is a smoke raised with the fume of sighs; Being purged, a fire sparkling in lovers’ eyes; Being vexed a sea nourish’d with loving tears:  Technique: Metaphor, natural imagery, figurative language Characters: Romeo Act 1, Scene 1

#16: Alas that love, so gentle in his view, Should be so tyrannous and rough in proof! Technique: Personification , symbolism, contrast Characters: Benvolio Act 1, Scene 1

#17: Here’s much to do with hate, but more with love. Why then, O brawling love, O loving hate…  Technique: Oxymoron, high modality Characters: Romeo M. Act 1, Scene 1

#18: This love feel I, that feel no love in this Technique: Chiasmus, emotive language Characters: Romeo Act 1, Scene 1 Analysis:  He is expressing his confusion and frustration over his own emotions. He says that he feels love, but that he doesn’t feel any love within himself. The quote highlights the idea that love can be a confusing and contradictory experience. Romeo is deeply in love with Juliet, but he is also aware of the challenges and obstacles that their love faces. He is feeling a sense of internal conflict and is struggling to understand his own emotions. The quote also suggests that love can be a powerful and transformative experience that can change a person’s life. Romeo is undergoing a significant emotional journey as a result of his love for Juliet, and this quote reflects the complex and contradictory feelings that he is experiencing. In conclusion, this quote provides insight into Romeo’s character and his feelings towards love and the challenges he faces in his relationship with Juliet. It highlights the theme of the confusion and uncertainty that can accompany love, and how it can be both powerful and difficult at the same time.

#19: Is love a tender thing? It is too rough, Too rude, too boist’rous, and it pricks like a thorn  Technique: Simile, violent imagery, emphatic lines Characters: Romeo Act 1, Scene 4

#20: If love be rough with you, be rough with love Prick love for pricking, and you beat love down.  Technique: Repetition, chiasmus, violent imagery  Characters: Mercutio Act 1, Scene 4

#21: I take thee at thy word: Call me but love, and I’ll be new baptiz’d Henceforth I will never be Romeo. Technique: Religious imagery, evocative language, symbolism Characters: Romeo M. Act 2, Scene 2

#22: It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.  Technique: Celestial imagery, metaphor, monologue Characters: Romeo M. Act 2, Scene 2 He is using a metaphor to describe his feelings for Juliet. He says that Juliet is like the sun, and that she is the source of light and warmth in his life. The quote highlights the idea that Juliet has a transformative and positive impact on Romeo’s life. Before he meets Juliet, Romeo is feeling lost and directionless, but her presence in his life brings light and happiness into his world. He sees her as the source of all that is good and positive, and he is filled with admiration and adoration for her. The metaphor of the sun also highlights the idea of renewal and new beginnings. The sun rises in the east, and it symbolises the start of a new day and the potential for new experiences and opportunities. Similarly, Juliet represents a new chapter in Romeo’s life and a fresh start. In conclusion, this quote provides insight into Romeo’s character and his feelings towards Juliet. It highlights the theme of the transformative power of love, and how it can bring light and happiness into a person’s life. The metaphor of the sun also suggests the idea of renewal and new beginnings, and the potential for positive change that love can bring.

Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Death

#23: Whose misadventur’d piteous overthrows Doth, with their death, bury their parents’ strife  Technique: Dramatic irony, foreshadowing Characters: Chorus Prologue

#24: Give me my Romeo, and when I shall die Take him and cut him out in little stars, And he will make the face of heaven so fine That all the world will be in love with night Technique: Celestial imagery, soliloquy Characters: Juliet C. Act 3, Scene 2

#25: Death is my son-in-law; Death is my heir Technique: Dramatic irony, metaphor, anthropomorphism Characters: Juliet C. Act 4, Scene 5

#26: … I will stay with thee; And never from this palace of dim night Depart again…” Technique: Dramatic irony, emotive language, grieving tone Characters: Romeo M. Act 5, Scene 3

#27: The drugs are quick. Thus with a kiss I die.  Technique: Symbolism, contrast Characters: Romeo M. Act 5, Scene 3

Quotes from Friar Lawrence

#28 And flecked darkness like a drunkard reels  Technique: Symbolism, figurative language Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 2, Scene 2

#29: For naught so vile that on Earth doth live But to Earth some special good doth give; Nor aught so good but, strained from that fair use, Revolts from true birth, stumbling on abuse  Technique: Soliloquy, antithesis Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 2, Scene 3

#30: And thou art wedded to calamity  Technique: Oxymoron, symbolism Characters: Friar Lawrence, Romeo  Act 3, Scene 3

#31: Ah, what an unkind hour Is guilty of this lamentable chance! Technique: Anthropomorphism, metaphor, grieving tone Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 5, Scene 3

Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Conflict

#32: For this alliance may so happy prove To turn your households’ rancour to pure love  Technique: High modality, hopeful tone Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 2, Scene 3

#33: I am hurt. A plague o’both houses! I am sped. Is he gone and hath nothing? Technique: Bubonic plague allusion, foreshadowing Characters: Mercutio Act 3, Scene 1

#34: O serpent heart, hid with a flow’ring face! Did ever dragon keep so fair a cave? Beautiful tyrant, fiend angelical! Technique: Oxymoron, symbolism, rhetorical question, emphatic verse Characters: Juliet C. Act 3, Scene 2

#35: O damned saint, an honourable villain! Technique: Oxymoron, symbolism, emphatic verse Characters: Juliet C. Act 3, Scene 2

#36: I dreamt my lady came and found me dead And breathed such life with kisses in my lips That I revived and was an emperor  Technique: Monologue, symbolism Characters: Romeo, Act 5, Scene 1

#37: As rich shall Romeo’s by his lady’s lie; Poor sacrifices of our enmity  Technique: Grieving tone Characters: Capulet Act 5, Scene 3

Romeo and Juliet Quotes about Hate

#38: What, drawn and talk of peace? I hate the word As I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee. Technique: Juxtaposition, characterisation of dramatic foil (Tybalt as a symbol of hate), biblical allusion Characters: Tybalt Act 1, Scene 1

#39: Why then, O brawling love! O loving hate! O any thing, of nothing first create! Technique: Tricolon, contrast, personification , consonance, paradox Characters: Romeo Act 1, Scene 1

#40: My only love sprung from my only hate! Too early seen unknown, and known too late! Technique: Dramatic irony, emotive language Characters: Juliet C. Act 1, Scene 5

#41: Virtue itself turns vice being misapplied And vice sometime’s by action dignified Technique: Consonance, contrast, couplet, iambic pentameter Characters: Friar Lawrence Act 2, Scene 3

#42: O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name, Or if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, And I’ll no longer be a Capulet. Technique: Soliloquy, rhetorical question, repetition  Characters: Juliet C.  Act 2, Scene 1 Analysis: The quote highlights the idea of the conflict between love and family loyalty. Juliet is asking Romeo to deny his identity as a Montague and become a member of the Capulet family, so that they can be together without any opposition from their families. She suggests that if he is unwilling to do so, then he should simply swear his love for her, and she will give up her own identity as a Capulet. The phrase “wherefore art thou Romeo?” is a play on words that asks both “where are you?” and “why are you who you are?” Juliet is longing for a world where their love can exist without being opposed by their family names. In conclusion, this quote provides insight into Juliet’s character and her love for Romeo. It highlights the theme of the power of love to overcome obstacles and the struggle between love and family loyalty. The play on words in the phrase “wherefore art thou Romeo?” is a clever expression of this theme and a testament to Juliet’s strong feelings for Romeo.

The Dangers of Youth and Rebellion

#43: Alas that love, whose view is muffled still, Should without eyes see pathways to his will! Technique: Personification, symbolism, foreshadowing  Characters: Romeo M. Act 1, Scene 1

#44: Alack, there lies more peril in thine eye Than twenty of their swords! Look thou but sweet, And I am proof against their enmity  Technique: Dramatic irony, high modality, confident tone Characters: Romeo M. Act 1, Scene 5

#45: Did my heart love till now? Forswear it, sight, For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night  Technique: Rhetorical question, hyperbole, emotive language Characters: Romeo M. Act 1, Scene 5

#46: When King Cophetua loved the beggar maid.- He heareth not, he stirreth not, he moveth not. Technique: Medieval allusion, metaphor Characters: Mercutio (about Romeo M.) Act 2, Scene 1

#47: By love, that first did prompt me to inquire. He lent me counsel, and I lent him eyes.  Technique: Personification, emotive language  Characters: Romeo M.  Act 2, Scene 2

#48: With love’s light wings did I o’er-perch these walls For stony limits cannot hold love out,  Technique: Symbolism, metaphor, religious allusion Characters: Romeo M.  Act 2, Scene 2

#49: It is too rash, too unadvised, too sudden, Too like lightning, which doth cease to be Technique: Simile, symbolism, soliloquy Characters: Juliet C. Act 2, Scene 2

#50: Wisely and slow; they stumble that run fast  Technique: Foreshadowing, didacticism  Characters: Friar Lawrence  Act 2, Scene 3

#51: Like powder in a skilless soldier’s flask Technique: Simile, metaphor, foreshadowing Characters: Friar Lawrence (about Romeo M) Act 3, Scene 3

#52: O, bid me leap, rather than marry Paris From battlements of yonder tower, Or walk in thievish ways, or bid me lurk Where serpents are.  Technique: Morbid imagery, emotive language  Characters: Juliet C. Act 4, Scene 1

#53: Where I have learn’d me to repent the sin Of disobedient opposition To you and your behest, and am enjoin’d By holy Laurence to fall prostrate here And beg your pardon  Technique: Dramatic irony, contrast Characters: Juliet C.  Act 4, Scene 2

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We’ve also got articles specifically on plays by  Shakespeare  which you can check out below:

• A Midsummer Night’s Dream
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Looking for more insight on Shakespeare? Check out this biography of Shakespeare’s personal history and influences!

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Romeo and Juliet Quotes

Famous quotes from romeo and juliet, example #1:.

Love is a smoke raised with the fume of sighs; Being purged, a fire sparkling in lovers’ eyes; Being vexed, a sea nourished with loving tears.

Example #2:

One fairer than my love? the all-seeing sun Ne’er saw her match since first the world begun.

Example #3:

My only love sprung from my only hate! Too early seen unknown, and known too late! Prodigious birth of love it is to me, That I must love a loathed enemy.

Example #4:

Tis but thy name that is my enemy. Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What’s Montague? it is nor hand, nor foot , Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part Belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What’s in a name? That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet.

Example #5:

Good night , good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow , That I shall say good night till it be morrow.

Example #6:

I take thee at thy word: Call me but love, and I’ll be new baptiz’d; Henceforth I never will be Romeo.

Example #7:

O, swear not by the moon, th’ inconstant moon, That monthly changes in her circle orb, Lest that thy love prove likewise variable.

Example #8:

And yet I wish but for the thing I have; My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.

Example #9:

Wisely and slow; they stumble that run fast.

Example #10:

Good gentle youth, tempt not a desperate man.

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Romeo and Juliet Quotes

Romeo and Juliet quotes are some of Shakespeare’s most popular, and the play is full of enduring quotes from start to grisly finish.

In Romeo and Juliet Shakespeare gave the world such memorable quotes as “ a rose by any other name would smell as sweet “, “parting is such sweet sorrow”, “a plague on both your houses” and dozens more. Below is our pick of the very best quotes from Romeo and Juliet, spoken by a variety of primary and secondary characters in the play. After each quote, the character speaking is listed, along with act and scene.

“ A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life. “

(Chorus, Prologue)

“Abraham: Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? Sampson: I do bite my thumb, sir.”

(act 1, scene 1)

“O teach me how I should forget to think!”

Romeo (act 1 scene 1)

“Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs. Being purged, a fire sparkling in lovers’ eyes; Being vex’d a sea nourish’d with lovers’ tears.”

“Under loves heavy burden do I sink.”

Romeo (act 1 scene 4)

“Did my heart love till now? forswear it, sight! For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night.”

Romeo (act 1 scene 5)

“O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright.”

“But, soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.”

Romeo (act 2, scene 2)

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?”

Juliet (act 2 scene 2)

“ That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet.”

Juliet (act 2, scene 2)

“See how she leans her cheek upon her hand. O, that I were a glove upon that hand That I might touch that cheek!”

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name; Or if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love And I’ll no longer be a Capulet.”

“O, swear not by the moon, th’ inconstant moon, That monthly changes in her circle orb, Lest that thy love prove likewise variable.”

“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.”

“This bud of love, by summer’s ripening breath, May prove a beauteous flower when next we meet.”

“Good night, good night! parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say good night till it be morrow.”

“Wisely and slow; they stumble that run fast.”

Friar Laurence (act 2, scene 3)

“For this alliance may so happy prove, To turn your households’ rancour to pure love.”

“Women may fall when there’s no strength in men.”

“ These violent delights have violent ends And in their triumph die, like fire and powder”

Friar Laurence (act 2, scene 5)

“A plague o’ both your houses!”

Mercutio (act 3, scene 1)

“Mercy but murders, pardoning those that kill.”

Prince (act 3, scene 1)

“Oh, I am fortune’s fool!”

Romeo (act 3, scene 1)

“Give me my Romeo, and, when I shall die, Take him and cut him out in little stars, And he will make the face of heaven so fine That all the world will be in love with night, And pay no worship to the garish sun.”

Juliet (act 3, scene 2)

“Romeo, Romeo, Romeo! Here’s drink: I drink to thee.”

Juliet (act 4, scene 3)

“O true apothecary, Thy drugs are quick. Thus with a kiss I die.”

Romeo (act 5, scene 3)

“Tempt not a desperate man”

“O happy dagger, This is thy sheath: there rust, and let me die.”

Juliet (act 5, scene 3)

“All are punished.”

Prince (act 5, scene 3)

“For never was a story of more woe Than this of Juliet and her Romeo.”

Are we missing any great Romeo and Juliet quotes? Let us know in the comments section below.

Read quotes from Romeo and Juliet translated into modern English :

• How oft when men are at the point of death
• Gallop apace you fiery footed steed
• The clock struck nine when I did see the nurse
• She doth teach the torches to burn bright
• What light through yonder window breaks
• See the RSC’s take on Romeo and Juliet on stage

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I’m looking for the translation of ‘O serpent heart, hid with a flowering face! Did ever dragon keep so fair a cave? Beautiful tyrant! fiend angelical! Dove-feather’d raven! wolvish-ravening lamb! Despised substance of divinest show! Just opposite to what thou justly seem’st, A damned saint, an honourable villain! O nature, what hadst thou to do in hell, When thou didst bower the spirit of a fiend In moral paradise of such sweet flesh? Was ever book containing such vile matter So fairly bound? O that deceit should dwell In such a gorgeous palace!’ Anyone know of a good Shakespeare to English translator?

Actually, I believe she’s talking to her mother or nurse how she “Hates” Romeo. When in reality, she’s saying things under her breath while she speaks, so she only hears the bad stuff. Basically still in love with him after he killed Tybalt, just trying to keep suspicion away. Of course this was 9th grade stuff for me so I could be wrong. lol

lots of help for my sis

It’s basically all oxymorons and paradoxes, it does not make sense. Juliet thinks it doesn’t make any sense why her beautiful lover would do such an ugly crime to Tybalt Idk. That’s my interpretation :/

Romeo’s and juliet is my favourite show

There are many interpretations of Romeo and Juliet, I just loved the film from 1969. The story is a great story of forbidden love, family hate, and salvation.

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Romeo and Juliet

William shakespeare, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Two households, both alike in dignity, In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean. From forth the fatal loins of these two foes, A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life; Whose misadventured piteous overthrows, Doth with their death bury their parents' strife. The fearful passage of their death-mark'd love, And the continuance of their parents' rage, Which, but their children's end, nought could remove, Is now the two hours' traffic of our stage; The which if you with patient ears attend, What here shall miss, our toil shall strive to mend.

Abraham: Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? Sampson: I do bite my thumb, sir. Abraham: Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? Sampson (to Gregory): Is the law of our side if I say ay? Gregory: No. Sampson: No, sir, I do not bite my thumb at you sir; but I bite my thumb, sir.

Why then, O brawling love! O loving hate! O any thing, of nothing first created; O heavy lightness! serious vanity! Mis-shapen chaos of well-seeming forms!

Romeo: I dream'd a dream to-night. Mercutio: And so did I. Romeo: Well, what was yours? Mercutio: That dreamers often lie.

Oh, she doth teach the torches to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night Like a rich jewel in an Ethiope's ear, Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear. So shows a snowy dove trooping with crows As yonder lady o'er her fellows shows. The measure done, I'll watch her place of stand, And, touching hers, make blessèd my rude hand. Did my heart love till now? Forswear it, sight! For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night.

You kiss by th’ book.

My only love sprung from my only hate! Too early seen unknown, and known too late!

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!

O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name; Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, And I'll no longer be a Capulet.

'Tis but thy name that is my enemy; — Thou art thyself though, not a Montague. What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot, Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part Belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What's in a name? That which we call a rose, By any other word would smell as sweet; So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd, Retain that dear perfection which he owes Without that title: — Romeo, doff thy name; And for thy name, which is no part of thee, Take all myself.

I take thee at thy word: Call me but love, and I'll be new baptis'd; Henceforth I never will be Romeo.

O, swear not by the moon, the inconstant moon, That monthly changes in her circled orb, Lest that thy love prove likewise variable.

Good-night, good-night! Parting is such sweet sorrow That I shall say good-night till it be morrow.

For naught so vile that on the earth doth live But to the earth some special good doth give; Nor aught so good but, strain'd from that fair use, Revolts from true birth, stumbling on the abuse: Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied; And vice sometimes by action dignified.

Romeo, the hate I bear thee can afford No better term than this: thou art a villain.

Romeo: Courage, man; the hurt cannot be much. Mercutio: No, 'tis not so deep as a well, nor so wide as a church-door; but 'tis enough, 'twill serve: ask for me to-morrow, and you shall find me a grave man.

O, I am fortune's fool!

Come, gentle night, — come, loving black brow'd night, Give me my Romeo; and when he shall die, Take him and cut him out in little stars, And he will make the face of Heaven so fine That all the world will be in love with night, And pay no worship to the garish sun.

Wilt thou be gone? it is not yet near day. It was the nightingale, and not the lark, That pierc'd the fearful hollow of thine ear; Nightly she sings on yond pomegranate tree. Believe me love, it was the nightingale.

Is there no pity sitting in the clouds That sees into the bottom of my grief? O sweet my mother, cast me not away! Delay this marriage for a month, a week, Or if you do not, make the bridal bed In that dim monument where Tybalt lies.

Or bid me go into a new-made grave, And hide me with a dead man in his shroud - Things that, to hear them told, have made me tremble - And I will do it without fear or doubt, To live an unstain'd wife to my sweet love.

Then I defy you, stars!

O true apothecary! Thy drugs are quick. — Thus with a kiss I die.

Yea, noise, then I'll be brief; O, happy dagger! This is thy sheath; there rest, and let me die.

For never was a story of more woe Than this of Juliet and her Romeo.

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Essays on Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and juliet essay topics: a guide for college students.

Explore essay topics on Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet." Selecting the right essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling and insightful analysis. This page aims to spark your creativity and personal interest in diving deep into the play's themes, characters, and societal implications.

Essay Types and Topics

Essays can vary greatly in type and focus. Below, we categorize potential "Romeo and Juliet" essay topics by type, providing a diverse range of subjects suitable for college-level analysis. Each topic suggestion comes with an introductory paragraph example, including a clear thesis statement, and a concluding paragraph that summarizes the essay and reiterates the thesis with a final reflection or call to action.

Argumentative Essays

• Topic: The Role of Fate vs. Free Will in Romeo and Juliet

Introduction Example: "Romeo and Juliet" is often interpreted as a narrative dominated by fate, yet a closer examination reveals a complex interplay between destiny and the choices of its characters. This essay argues that while fate sets the stage, the personal decisions of Romeo, Juliet, and others significantly influence the tragic outcome. Thesis Statement: Despite the heavy hand of fate, the tragic ending of "Romeo and Juliet" is the result of the characters' own choices, highlighting Shakespeare's commentary on free will.

Conclusion Example: In conclusion, "Romeo and Juliet" serves not only as a tale of doomed love but also as a profound exploration of the tension between fate and free will. The characters' decisions, as much as fate, weave the fabric of their tragedy, suggesting that our destinies are not solely at the mercy of the stars but also of our actions.

Compare and Contrast Essays

• Topic: Love and Hate in "Romeo and Juliet": A Comparative Analysis

Introduction Example: "Romeo and Juliet" masterfully juxtaposes the themes of love and hate, revealing how closely intertwined and yet vastly different they are. This essay will compare and contrast these central themes, examining how they coexist and influence the narrative's progression. Thesis Statement: Shakespeare demonstrates through "Romeo and Juliet" that love and hate are two sides of the same coin, each driving the story to its inevitable tragic conclusion.

Conclusion Example: Ultimately, the examination of love and hate in "Romeo and Juliet" reveals the complexity of human emotions and the tragic outcomes when these powerful feelings collide. Shakespeare's play serves as a timeless reminder of the destructive power of hate and the transcendent nature of love.

Descriptive Essays

• Topic: The Symbolism of Light and Darkness in "Romeo and Juliet"

Introduction Example: Throughout "Romeo and Juliet," Shakespeare employs the motifs of light and darkness to symbolize the dual nature of love and the societal constraints surrounding the protagonists. This essay aims to describe the significance of these symbols and their impact on the narrative. Thesis Statement: Light and darkness in "Romeo and Juliet" serve as powerful symbols that highlight the intensity of Romeo and Juliet's love and the darkness of the world that ultimately leads to their demise.

Conclusion Example: The symbolism of light and darkness in "Romeo and Juliet" enriches the narrative, offering deeper insights into the protagonists' love and the challenges they face. Through these motifs, Shakespeare communicates the enduring power and peril of love within a divided society.

Persuasive Essays

• Topic: The Importance of the Friar Lawrence Character in "Romeo and Juliet"

Introduction Example: Friar Lawrence is often viewed as a secondary character in "Romeo and Juliet," yet his role is pivotal to the unfolding of the play's events. This essay will persuade readers of the critical importance of Friar Lawrence, arguing that his decisions and actions are central to the narrative and themes of the play. Thesis Statement: Friar Lawrence is a crucial character in "Romeo and Juliet," whose actions and wisdom deeply influence the course and outcome of the story.

Conclusion Example: In persuading the reader of Friar Lawrence's significance, it becomes clear that his character is not only central to the narrative but also embodies the themes of wisdom, folly, and the unintended consequences of well-meaning actions. His involvement is essential to understanding the play's deeper messages.

Narrative Essays

• Topic: A Modern Retelling of "Romeo and Juliet"

Introduction Example: Imagining "Romeo and Juliet" set in the modern era offers a unique opportunity to explore how the themes of love, conflict, and tragedy translate across time. This narrative essay will recount the classic story through a contemporary lens, examining how the central themes endure in today's society. Thesis Statement: The timeless themes of "Romeo and Juliet" continue to resonate, even when set against the backdrop of the modern world, illustrating the universality of Shakespeare's masterpiece.

Conclusion Example: Through a modern retelling of "Romeo and Juliet," it becomes evident that the themes of love, hate, and fate are not confined to any one era but are enduring aspects of the human condition. Shakespeare's work remains relevant, reflecting the persistent nature of these experiences across generations.

Engagement and Creativity

As you embark on your essay-writing journey, choose a topic that not only aligns with your assignment requirements but also sparks your interest and curiosity. Let your exploration of "Romeo and Juliet" be guided by creativity and a desire to uncover new insights into Shakespeare's work. Engage deeply with the text, and allow your critical thinking to bring fresh perspectives to well-trodden paths.

Educational Value

Writing essays on "Romeo and Juliet" offers valuable opportunities to develop analytical thinking, persuasive writing skills, and a deeper appreciation for literature. Each essay type encourages a different approach to the text, whether it be through argumentative analysis, comparative exploration, descriptive detail, persuasive advocacy, or narrative creativity. Embrace these challenges as chances to enhance your academic skills and personal growth.

Friar Laurence is not to Blame

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Mercutio Responsible for The Deaths in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

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Romeo and Juliet: Choice Or Fate

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Maturity and Immaturity in The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet

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1597, William Shakespeare

Play; Shakespearean Tragedy

Romeo, Juliet, Count Paris, Mercutio, Tybalt, The Nurse, Rosaline, Benvolio, Friar Laurence

Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is based on a narrative poem by Arthur Brooke called "The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet," which was published in 1562. However, Shakespeare's play transformed the original story into a timeless masterpiece of love and tragedy. The historical context of the play is rooted in the Italian Renaissance, a period characterized by a renewed interest in classical literature, arts, and humanism. This cultural milieu influenced Shakespeare's portrayal of the conflict between love and societal norms, as well as the exploration of passion, honor, and fate.

In the city of Verona, two prominent families, the Montagues and the Capulets, are engaged in a bitter feud. Amidst this hostility, Romeo, a Montague, attends a masquerade ball hosted by the Capulets and instantly falls in love with Juliet, a Capulet. They share a passionate encounter and realize they are from rival families. Determined to be together, Romeo and Juliet secretly marry with the help of Friar Laurence. However, their blissful union is short-lived when a series of unfortunate events unfolds. Tybalt, Juliet's hot-tempered cousin, challenges Romeo to a duel, resulting in Tybalt's death. As punishment, Romeo is banished from Verona. Desperate to avoid her arranged marriage to Count Paris, Juliet seeks assistance from Friar Laurence, who devises a plan to reunite the lovers. But the plan goes awry, and miscommunication leads Romeo to believe that Juliet is dead. Overwhelmed by grief, Romeo drinks a poison and dies next to Juliet's lifeless body. Upon awakening and discovering Romeo's fate, Juliet takes her own life with a dagger. The tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet finally bring their feuding families together in sorrow, realizing the consequences of their longstanding enmity.

Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is set in the Italian city of Verona during the 14th century. Verona serves as the backdrop for the tragic love story of the young protagonists, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. The city of Verona is depicted as a place of deep-seated rivalry and violence between the two influential families, the Montagues and the Capulets. The streets of Verona are filled with tension and hostility, as the feuding families constantly clash and disrupt the peace. Within Verona, significant locations play a vital role in the story. The streets and public squares serve as meeting places for the characters, where conflicts and confrontations often occur. The Capulet household, including the iconic balcony where Romeo and Juliet exchange their famous declarations of love, symbolizes the forbidden nature of their relationship. Additionally, the tomb of the Capulets becomes the tragic final setting where Romeo and Juliet meet their fateful ends.

Love: Romeo and Juliet's love is portrayed as passionate and all-consuming, transcending the boundaries of their warring families. The theme of love is further explored through the contrast between romantic love and familial love, as the couple grapples with loyalty to their families and their own desires. Fate: The play suggests that the lovers' tragic end is predetermined by forces beyond their control, emphasizing the role of destiny in their lives. This theme is captured in the famous line, "star-crossed lovers," which highlights the notion that their love is doomed from the start. Feuds and conflict: The bitter rivalry between the Montagues and the Capulets fuels the tension and violence that ultimately leads to the tragic events. Shakespeare explores the destructive consequences of long-standing enmity and the price that is paid when hatred triumphs over peace.

One prevalent literary device in the play is metaphor. Shakespeare employs metaphor to convey complex ideas and emotions. For example, in Romeo's famous line, "But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun," he compares Juliet to the sun, emphasizing her radiant beauty and his adoration for her. Another device used extensively in Romeo and Juliet is dramatic irony. This occurs when the audience knows more about the events or the true intentions of the characters than they do themselves. A notable example is when Juliet takes a sleeping potion to feign her death, while Romeo, unaware of her plan, believes she is truly dead. This creates tension and heightens the emotional impact of the subsequent tragic events. Additionally, Shakespeare employs soliloquies and asides to reveal the characters' inner thoughts and feelings directly to the audience. These monologues provide insight into their motivations, dilemmas, and conflicts, fostering a deeper understanding of their complexities. Other literary devices employed in Romeo and Juliet include imagery, allusion, foreshadowing, and wordplay.

"But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun." - Romeo (Act II, Scene II) "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." - Juliet (Act II, Scene II) "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" - Juliet (Act II, Scene II) "Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow." - Juliet (Act II, Scene II) "These violent delights have violent ends." - Friar Laurence (Act II, Scene VI)

In film, there have been numerous cinematic adaptations of Romeo and Juliet, each offering its unique take on the timeless story. Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film and Baz Luhrmann's 1996 modernized version are among the most well-known adaptations, capturing the tragic romance and passion of the original play. Television has also embraced Romeo and Juliet, with adaptations ranging from traditional period dramas to contemporary reinterpretations. These adaptations often explore different settings and time periods while staying true to the core themes of love, feuds, and destiny. The play has influenced music as well, with artists drawing inspiration from the story and its characters. Popular songs, such as "Love Story" by Taylor Swift and "Check Yes Juliet" by We the Kings, reference Romeo and Juliet, showcasing the enduring impact of the play on popular culture. Additionally, Romeo and Juliet has been referenced in literature, visual arts, and even advertising campaigns, highlighting its cultural significance and widespread recognition.

Cultural Significance: The play has become a symbol of romantic tragedy and forbidden love. It has inspired countless adaptations, films, and musicals, further cementing its status as an iconic love story. Language and Expressions: Shakespeare's unique language and poetic expressions in "Romeo and Juliet" have greatly influenced the English language. Phrases like "What's in a name?" and "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet" have become widely quoted and integrated into everyday speech. Archetypal Characters: The characters of Romeo and Juliet have become archetypes of passionate, young lovers. Their plight and the themes of love, fate, and family conflict resonate with audiences across cultures and generations. Impact on Drama and Theater: The play's tragic structure, complex characters, and dramatic tension have had a lasting impact on the field of drama. It has served as a model for storytelling and character development, inspiring playwrights and directors for centuries.

Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" is a timeless masterpiece that remains relevant and captivating across centuries. Exploring the reasons why it is worth writing an essay about involves delving into its enduring significance. Firstly, the play explores universal themes such as love, fate, and family conflict, which resonate with audiences of all ages and cultures. Its exploration of the intensity and consequences of young love provides valuable insights into human emotions and relationships. Secondly, the play showcases Shakespeare's unparalleled mastery of language and poetic expression. Studying the rich and evocative dialogue, intricate wordplay, and use of literary devices in "Romeo and Juliet" allows for a deeper appreciation of Shakespeare's artistic genius and contributes to the understanding of his broader body of work. Furthermore, the play's exploration of societal expectations, gender roles, and the power of passion challenges conventional norms and raises thought-provoking questions about the constraints of society. Lastly, the enduring popularity and numerous adaptations of "Romeo and Juliet" in various art forms demonstrate its cultural significance and ability to inspire creative interpretations.

1. Shakespeare, W. (2019). Romeo and juliet. In One-Hour Shakespeare (pp. 304-368). Routledge. (https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429262715-13/romeo-juliet-william-shakespeare) 2. Driscoll, R., Davis, K. E., & Lipetz, M. E. (1972). Parental interference and romantic love: The Romeo and Juliet effect. Journal of personality and social psychology, 24(1), 1. (https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1973-04399-001) 3. Whittier, G. (1989). The Sonnet's Body and the Body Sonnetized in" Romeo and Juliet". Shakespeare Quarterly, 40(1), 27-41. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/2870752) 4. Kottman, P. A. (2012). Defying the stars: tragic love as the struggle for freedom in Romeo and Juliet. Shakespeare Quarterly, 63(1), 1-38. (https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/1/article/470678/summary) 5. Sánchez, A. B. (1995). Metaphorical models of romantic love in Romeo and Juliet. Journal of Pragmatics, 24(6), 667-688. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/037821669500007F) 6. Clark, G. (2011). The civil mutinies of Romeo and Juliet. English Literary Renaissance, 41(2), 280-300. (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1475-6757.2011.01086.x) 7. Snyder, S. (1970). Romeo and juliet: Comedy into tragedy. Essays in Criticism, 20(4), 391-402. (https://academic.oup.com/eic/article-abstract/XX/4/391/599716?redirectedFrom=PDF) 8. Brown, S., Cockett, P., & Yuan, Y. (2019). The neuroscience of Romeo and Juliet: An fMRI study of acting. Royal Society Open Science, 6(3), 181908. (https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsos.181908)

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Romeo & Juliet: Key Quotations ( AQA GCSE English Literature )

Revision note.

Key Quotations

The best way to revise quotations is to group them by character, or theme. Below you will find definitions and analysis of the best quotations, arranged by the following themes:

Examiners reward answers which link ideas and themes in the given extract to the rest of the play. A convincing way to do this is to include short quotations or references from elsewhere in Romeo and Juliet which show a connection, contrast, or illustrate thematic or character development. The trick is to show how Shakespeare develops these themes and how they are shown by the end.  

It is equally valuable to include “paired quotations”: two quotations that might not feature in the extract but show these connections, or changes. These paired quotations are marked below and are great when analysed together.

Romeo and Juliet is known for its theme of love. However, as the play’s ending suggests, it is a tragic tale of woe and conflict, a tale about a love that was forbidden because of a family grudge. 

Paired quotations:

“Here’s much to do with hate, but more with love”  Romeo Montague, Act I, Scene I

“O brawling love, o loving hate” Romeo Montague, Act I, Scene I

Meaning and context

• In the first scene when Benvolio informs Romeo there has been a fight, Romeo tells Benvolio he believes the feud is fueled by hatred stemming from love
• Shortly after discussing the f eud , Romeo confides in Benvolio about his deep thoughts that love is painful and difficult
• Audiences are introduced to Romeo as a character who understands the connections between love and hate
• This scene, focusing on Romeo’s heartbreak, juxtaposes the preceding fight scene, showing love and hate side by side
• Romeo uses an  o xymoron (“loving hate”) to show his contrasting feelings, beautifully describing his inner conflict and the strength of his feelings 
• The parallels drawn by Romeo at the start of the play  f oreshadow the violence of the love between Romeo and Juliet

“Did my heart love till now? forswear it, sight! For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night”  Romeo Montague, Act I, Scene V

• When Romeo sees Juliet at the masked Capulet ball he believes her to be the most beautiful girl he has seen 
• He suggests any previous love, such as his love for Rosaline which the audience has just seen him troubled over, was not true love
• Here, Shakespeare shows Romeo as a character obsessed with c ourtly love  
• Audiences have just seen Romeo profess a broken heart over Rosaline’s u nrequited love  and will judge him for his change of heart
• Shakespeare presents Romeo’s f atal flaw , his fickle impulsiveness
• Friar Laurence and Juliet both criticise Romeo for his inconstant and rash actions which lead to his (and Juliet’s) downfall
• Shakespeare suggests that courtly love was superficial and fleeting 
• Shakespeare comments here, and in much of his writing, on pure love being constant love

“Under love’s heavy burden do I sink” Romeo Montague, Act I, Scene IV

• Romeo tells Mercutio he is unable to go to the Capulet Ball as he is heartbroken 
• As seen earlier in the scene, Romeo believes love to be a heavy burden to carry
• Romeo alludes to the dark moods the audience has seen he is prone to in Act I, Scene I 
• Romeo uses m etaphor to show the pain associated with love: he likens his heartbreak to a pressure weighing him down
• Shakespeare shows Romeo as sensitive and prone to depression, subverting gender stereotypes and commenting on pressures for young men

“If love be rough with you, be rough with love; prick love for pricking, and you beat love down ” Mercutio, Act I, Scene V

• Here, Mercutio is trying to lighten Romeo’s mood before the Capulet ball
• He advises Romeo to beat love’s pain by being casual with it, by fighting back 
• Here, Mercutio advises Romeo to be less sensitive about love, using the metaphor of a thorny rose
• Shakespeare uses Mercutio’s dialogue to provide comedic and light relief from the intensity of other scenes 
• Shakespeare often uses p uns in Mercutio's bawdy, humorous dialogue to play on the double meanings of words 
• Here, Mercutio uses the double meaning of the word ‘prick’ to connote thorns and sex, suggesting Romeo uses sex to overcome painful love
• Later, Mercutio delivers a s oliloquy about Queen Mab; the speech suggests daydreams and fantasies about love are a waste of time
• Mercutio advises Romeo repeatedly to avoid dreams of idealised love 
• Audiences see characters’ contrasting attitudes to love in this conversation between the love-sick Romeo and the flippant Mercutio

“O, swear not by the moon, th’ inconstant moon” J uliet Capulet, Act II, Scene II

• Juliet replies to Romeo’s sudden declarations of love in the Capulet garden, asking Romeo to be constant and committed to his love
• Juliet is connecting Romeo’s sudden promises to the changing moon
• Shakespeare uses c elestial imagery here and throughout the play when the Juliet refers to Romeo
• Her request that Romeo swears his love by something more constant suggests the changing nature of the stars and planets
• Juliet is presented as rational and sensible, not leaving her fate to the stars and planets
• This imagery challenges Elizabethan audiences who regularly made decisions based on the stars and planets

The conflict within the play originates from an ancient grudge which neither family can remember. Shakespeare presents the discrimination the families show toward each other, hating without reason, as violent and tragic, punishing the town at the end of the play. It could be argued that Shakespeare mirrors this in the play, Romeo and Juliet. Written for Queen Elizabeth I, a Protestant, Shakespeare, a Catholic, veils messages about conflict in a dramatic love story.

• The chorus delivers this line in the Prologue before the play begins
• The chorus tells audiences that Romeo and Juliet will rebel attempting to overthrow the authority and that their deaths will end their parents’ “strife” or war
• The chorus is a device used in Greek t ragedy , often to narrate key ideas to audiences
• A Prologue provides the audience with information about the play’s themes, here the themes are rebellion, death and war
• Here, the chorus tells the audience the outcome of events to build dramatic irony and create tension
• Dramatic irony allows audiences to watch events unfold with the ending in mind
• This line, taken from the Prologue , warns audiences that the young lovers will defy the status quo  
• The adjective describing this rebellion (“misadventured piteous”) suggests it will fail and the audience will feel pity for the young lovers
• It also lets the audience know, immediately, that their sacrifice will bury their parent’s feud. The use of the word “bury” also foreshadows the deaths of Romeo and Juliet
• Shakespeare’s Prologue challenges audiences to consider the violence that comes from civil war and the sacrifices children may have to make for it

“My only love sprung from my only hate” Juliet Capulet, Act I, Scene V 

• Juliet speaks this line at the Capulet ball when she is told by her nurse that Romeo is a Montague and therefore her enemy 
• She realises that she is bound by her family to hate the only person she loves
• Juliet’s oxymoron , reflected in other lines that liken her marriage to a grave, suggests an awareness of the danger of loving her enemy 
• Juliet’s dialogue presents the close relationship between love and hate, foreshadowing the impact the feud will have on their future
• Audiences, aware of the tragedy to come, are challenged to watch how conflict affects love
• The v erb “sprung” suggests her love originates from hate springing from family conflict
• The r epetition of “only” emphasises the huge significance the feud has in her life 
• In the midst of religious civil war in Elizabethan England, this line reflects the impact of division on innocent citizens, in particular, young people

Paired quotations: 

“I do but keep the peace” Benvolio Montague, Act I, Scene I

“For now, these hot days is the mad blood stirring” Benvolio Montague, Act III, Scene I

• In Act I, Scene I, when a fight erupts between the Capulets and Montagues, Benvolio tells Tybalt he wants to keep the peace instead of fighting
• Benvolio again tries to keep the peace in Act III, Scene I when he and Mercutio meet in a public place, warning Mercutio that if the Capulets see them there will be a fight
• Audiences are introduced to Benvolio as a kind character who promotes peace
• This line has religious connotations, as Benvolio’s dialogue mimics Jesus Christ’s 
• His dialogue is used to contrast Mercutio and Tybalt’s fiery nature
• Benvolio uses metaphor to equate the temper of the Capulets to the hot day
• In a dramatic and climactic scene in the middle of the play, Benvolio’s dialogue acts as foreshadowing , preceding a fight

“ These violent delights have violent ends” Friar Laurence, Act II, Scene VI

• As the friar marries Romeo and Juliet he warns them that passion can be violent
• The secret and forbidden marriage is described here as having a tragic ending 
• The friar uses oxymorons here, and throughout the play, to show the relationship between opposites
• This line alludes to the opposing forces in all things: “violent” opposes the idea of “delight”
• The repetition of “violence” emphasises the tragic consequences of the feud
• The dark imagery foreshadows the marriage’s tragic outcome 
• Shakespeare uses the friar’s character to present opposing forces in nature, a theme prevalent in the play

Romeo and Juliet’s love is forbidden due to the “ancient grudge”, or feud, between the houses of Capulet and Montague. The lovers are bound to their family name and the hatred as a result of it. The play explores, as many of Shakespeare’s plays do, the challenges young people face when disagreeing with their families and the cultural values of the time.

“F rom ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean” The chorus, The Prologue

• The chorus tells the audience in the P rologue , before the play begins, that there will be conflict in the town
• The chorus also reveals that something the town is holding on to from the past will lead to the spilling of blood
• The Prologue is a s onnet which introduces the play’s theme of honour, subverting the tradition of sonnets as Italian poems about c ourtly love
• By using the form of a sonnet , traditionally a love poem, to introduce the feuding families Shakespeare shows a close connection between conflict, honour and love 
• The “ancient grudge” remains unknown throughout the play, suggesting the families do not know the real reason for their feud
• This challenges Elizabethan perspectives on family honour, related to the religious battles at the time and the  p atriarchal h ierarchy
• Here, the contrast of “ancient” and “new” represents old and young, meaning the young will attempt a mutiny on the old
• The m etaphor “civil blood” refers to the violence between the town’s civilians
• The a mbiguous meaning of “unclean” suggests to audiences that the violence is impure
• Shakespeare often uses the metaphor of blood on hands to symbolise guilt

“What’s in a name? ” Juliet Capulet, Act II, Scene II

“ Deny thy father and refuse thy name; Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,

And I'll no longer be a Capulet ” Juliet Capulet, Act II, Scene II

• In Act II, Scene II, Juliet is alone on the balcony after the Capulet ball
• Later in the scene, Romeo appears from hiding and declares his love
• Juliet asks Romeo to turn his back on his family, and if he does not she will do it instead
• Juliet’s s oliloquy is spoken alone, making this scene dramatic and highlighting its serious themes
• A soliloquy is used in drama to represent the character revealing their true feelings, adding authenticity to Juliet’s controversial dialogue
• Juliet’s rhetorical question in this soliloquy asks Elizabethan audiences to challenge values about family honour
• In the soliloquy , Juliet uses metaphorical language to consider the irrelevance of names in love
• Her use of i mperative verbs  (“deny” and “refuse”) suggests the strength of her feelings
• As Elizabethans held their family name in high esteem, here, Juliet is attempting to overthrow the s tatus quo
• Shakespeare often presents characters in ways that s ubvert the stereotype
• Juliet, a young girl, delivers the most significant message in the play about hatred and discrimination
• Shakespeare shows the young couple finding it necessary to turn their backs on their families to be together, suggesting the impact of forced marriage and family feud

Paired quotations:  

“What, drawn and talk of peace? I hate the word, as I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee” Tybalt Capulet, Act I, Scene I

“By the stock and honour of my kin, to strike him dead I hold it not a sin” Tybalt Capulet, Act I, Scene V  

• In the opening scene, Tybalt asks Benvolio why he would talk about peace instead of fighting for his family name
• Later, in Act I, Scene V, Tybalt is offended by Romeo’s attendance at the Capulet ball
• He asks his servant for a sword, claiming that murder is not a sin if you do it for family honour
• The opening scene shows the constant threat of fighting between the two families
• Tybalt’s character is introduced as fiercely passionate about avenging his family's honour
• Tybalt’s dialogue is dramatic, using  r hetorical question to show his shock and offence at the suggestion of peace
• Shakespeare's use of a list of three emphasises his hatred, links religion to violence and stresses that these ideas are opposed to peace  
• In Act I, Scene V, Tybalt foreshadows further conflict by showing his bitterness towards Romeo, his enemy
• His r hyming couplet (“kin”/”sin”) stresses the connection between sin and family honour
• The verb “strike” suggests the violence inherent in Tybalt 
• His dialogue is dramatic and intense, to represent the intensity of the hatred in the feud
• Tybalt’s dialogue is presented as bitter and angry, representing the strong feelings associated with honour

“A plague on both your houses!” Mercutio, Act III, Scene I

• In this climactic scene, Mercutio curses the Capulet and Montague families as he dies
• Despite being Romeo’s friend, Mercutio is not involved in the feud until this scene
• Shakespeare’s climactic scene of a public fight between Romeo and Tybalt creates a plot twist for audiences
• Mercutio, neither a Montague nor a Capulet, is killed in the feud, alluding to the deaths of innocent bystanders in the name of family honour
• The plague Mercutio delivers could be a biblical reference, suggesting a holy punishment for the meaningless violence
• It could likely refer to the disruptions of Elizabethan life by contagious diseases, mentioned later in the play
• Mercutio’s curse comes true at the end of the play when a plague prevents the friar’s important message from getting to Romeo
• Mercutio’s curse comes from frustration at being killed by mistake, caught between Romeo and Tybalt
• Mercutio’s earlier flippant dialogue changes quickly to an ominous curse, suggestive of his name “Mercury” - both a mythical winged messenger and a quick-changing metal

Don’t include quotations that have nothing to do with the question. As tempting as it might be if you have them memorised, examiners really dislike when students “shoe-horn in irrelevant quotations”. 

This can affect your overall mark since your response can become less focused. Use the evidence to support your argument. Evidence can be a reference to language, as well as dramatic devices.

From the very beginning and throughout the play, Romeo and Juliet’s relationship is thwarted by pressures linked to cultural values and traditions, something that could be described as an “outside force”. However, Shakespeare presents these forces as fateful, showing Romeo and Juliet giving in to fate until it is too late, in a bid to challenge contemporary belief systems.

• In the P rologue , the c horus invites audiences to watch the “fearful passage” of the unfolding tragic love story
• The chorus refers to the “death-mark’d love” of Romeo and Juliet, suggesting the  f ate of the “star-cross’d lovers” is already marked, predetermined by the stars
• Shakespeare employs d ramatic irony by telling audiences the p rotagonist ’ fate
• The adjectives " fearful” and “death-mark’d” connect the idea of destiny and fear
• By telling Elizabethan audiences that the tragedy is already predetermined, Shakespeare links fate to tragedy, challenging prevalent superstitious beliefs about fate

Paired quotations

“He who hath steerage of course, Direct my sail” Romeo Montague, Act I, Scene IV

“O I am Fortune’s Fool!” Romeo Montague, Act III, Scene I

“Then I defy you, Stars!” Romeo Montague, Act V, Scene I

• In Act I, Romeo’s fateful journey begins with a premonition of the consequences of his night at the Capulet Ball. Here, he addresses fate, asking whoever it is who decides his future to lead the way
• By Act III, Romeo has killed Tybalt and lost his friend, Mercutio, and acknowledges he has become a fool to fate/fortune
• By Act V, Romeo learns (mistakenly) that Juliet is dead and he turns against fate
• At first, Shakespeare shows Romeo giving in to fate , a dominant ideology of the time
• Romeo’s d irect address   speaks directly to Fate, personifying it as if it is a person who decides his future
• Audiences have been shown Romeo as an impulsive and fickle boy as he begins his fateful journey, and here again as he ignores a premonition and leaves his future in the hands of fate
• The i mperative verbs , “Direct”, suggests reckless confidence in his tone
• The m etaphor of being on a boat and allowing nature to direct his way symbolises a fatalistic attitude which audiences know will be punished
• In Act III, Romeo addresses Fate once again, after the deaths of Mercutio and Tybalt
• This time, he shouts his frustration at Fate’s decision to make him “Fortune’s fool”, again implying he has little a utonomy over his life
• The Elizabethans believed that the stars, planets and gods were powerful over human lives, and this line begins to question the influence of fate in the violence
• By Act V, Romeo turns his back on the decisions the stars and fate have made for him
• In grief, Romeo angrily addresses the stars and exclaims his defiance
• This line emphasises the desperation Romeo feels about his circumstances, and his decision to create some autonomy by returning to die with Juliet

“ Methinks I see thee now, thou art so low As one dead in the bottom of a tomb ” Juliet Capulet, Act III, Scene V

• In this scene, Juliet has a premonition about Romeo’s future
• She sees him dead, sunk low down at the bottom of a tomb
• Here, Juliet  f oreshadows   the death of Romeo, suggesting his fate is sealed
• The explicit message is a stark message about Romeo’s dark future 
• Juliet’s dialogue often refers to death. Earlier in Act II, she likens her marriage to a grave
• Juliet’s premonitions build tension through the dramatic irony created in the Prologue
• Shakespeare challenges the audience's perceptions about fate and free will by showing both Romeo and Juliet instinctively knowing their doomed future

For your exam, you are not expected to learn dozens of quotations by heart. Although examiners do reward the use of memorised quotations in your essay, you will also be rewarded for your ability to mention plot points from various points of the play. These are called “textual references”, and do not have to include direct quotations. Try to remember keywords from the quotations to embed the most significant words in your answer. 

Therefore, it is better to learn a few quotations and their wider significance, really well, than lots of random quotations: you will not be awarded more marks for more quotations.

The quotations above have all been chosen as they cover a good range of themes that Shakespeare explores in Romeo and Juliet.

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Author: Sam Evans

Sam is a graduate in English Language and Literature, specialising in journalism and the history and varieties of English. Before teaching, Sam had a career in tourism in South Africa and Europe. After training to become a teacher, Sam taught English Language and Literature and Communication and Culture in three outstanding secondary schools across England. Her teaching experience began in nursery schools, where she achieved a qualification in Early Years Foundation education. Sam went on to train in the SEN department of a secondary school, working closely with visually impaired students. From there, she went on to manage KS3 and GCSE English language and literature, as well as leading the Sixth Form curriculum. During this time, Sam trained as an examiner in AQA and iGCSE and has marked GCSE English examinations across a range of specifications. She went on to tutor Business English, English as a Second Language and international GCSE English to students around the world, as well as tutoring A level, GCSE and KS3 students for educational provisions in England. Sam freelances as a ghostwriter on novels, business articles and reports, academic resources and non-fiction books.