Classical References In Romeo And Juliet

Love is one of the most important themes of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, and a distinction can be made between love guided by thought and love led by passion. In classical mythology it is easy to find the second kind of love. The Greek deity Eros is the personification of passionate and physical desire – and he is not the only example. As a result, it is not surprising that Shakespeare portrays this kind of love with classical mythological references. Shakespeare uses classical references not only to refer to love (as was often done in literature), but also to make a statement about love that is guided by passion. Some of the most important allusions in Romeo and Juliet are those to Eros, the ancient Greek god of love in all its varieties.

For example, Mercutio says the following about Romeo's love: “the very pin of his heart cleft with the/ blind bow-boy's butt-shaft.” (2.4;15-16) This is a notable statement when one bears the classical representation of Eros in mind. Eros was usually depicted as an adolescent with wings – often carrying a wreath of victory – and was seldom blind.3 Shakespeare does not use the classical image of Eros. Rather, he uses the depiction found in contemporary literature – that of a blindfolded male – in order to suggest that love is “blind,” or foolish.

Another point about love that Shakespeare uses mythology to make is that it can be reckless. In the third act, while waiting for Romeo, Juliet expresses her wish for night to begin: “Gallop apace, you fiery-footed steeds . . . As Phaethon would whip you to the west.” (3.2.1-3) Here, Shakespeare includes Phaethon in Juliet’s speech. According to legend, Phaethon was the son of Apollo, the god of the sun, and the archetype of recklessness.4 Phaethon drove his father's chariot. Due to his wild ways, he crashed the cart, killing himself.5 Since this myth is connected with Juliet's love for Romeo, it is implied that her love is passionate and that, in all likelihood, it will have a bad