Foils In Romeo And Juliet

Unknown to many, the study of human connections, romantic relationships, and mutual interactions is remarkably complex. Do opposites attract or does like call to like? Is there a deeper factor at play that affects human chemistry? Shakespeare's tragic play "Romeo and Juliet" addresses this subject as it tells the tale of "two star-crossed lovers'' from opposite backgrounds who attempt to defy destiny, before eventually succumbing. Shakespeare utilizes Romeo and Juliet’s characters in this play by highlighting both their similar and different characteristics. Romeo and Juliet's roles as each other's foils are explored in the narrative.

The story combines elements such as light and darkness, personalities, and romantic idealism to show how the

This demonstrates how the two figures are the counterparts of one another, as Romeo is referred to as an "envious moon," being fascinated by Juliet's brilliance, while the sun symbolizes Juliet's vibrance associated with warmth, light, and life. To continue, Romeo and Juliet have contrasting personalities as Romeo is more dramatic and passionate while Juliet is more grounded and rational. For instance, Juliet displays no signs of fear or fright when Friar Lawrence gives the poison to her, saying, “Give me, give me! O, tell me not to fear” ( IV, V, 122 ). This highlights her bravery and fearlessness, which are traits frequently associated with men. Romeo, on the other hand, is frequently portrayed to be intense and emotional, as demonstrated at the start of the act when he asks, “Can I go forward when my heart is here? Turn back, dull earth, and find thy center out” ( II, II,1 ). This quotation highlights Romeo's tendency to exaggerate his issues with love. These melodramatic emotions are typically linked with females. The fact that Romeo and Juliet's personalities clash, serves as one more way in which they