Nicholas Brookswolf Wallace 2A 5/18/23 How Romeo and Juliet was Inspired by Pyramus and Thisbe Romeo and Juliet seemingly took heavy inspiration from the myth of Pyramus and Thisbe, as the two have many similarities. That being said, they also each have distinct differences that help shape similar storylines. Taking a look at both stories reveals common themes and unique features. In particular, the theme of fate is stressed in both stories, drawing connections between the young star-crossed lovers from Shakespeare’s tragedy as well as the ill-fated couple from the ancient myth. In terms of similarities, both Romeo and Juliet and Pyramus and Thisbe are powerful love stories that both involve breaking societal barriers. In "Romeo and Juliet," …show more content…
In "Romeo and Juliet," the main obstacle is the longstanding feud between their families: the Montagues and the Capulets. This feud leads to secret meetings and tragic misunderstandings, caused by Juliet faking her own death and Friar mentioning it to the king, who brought her to her grave. Although Romeo was supposed to hear Friar's message first, he first heard that she was dead, and his grief and guilt ultimately caused the couple's untimely demise. The impact of this quote is shown when Juliet exclaims "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." (Act 2/ Scene 2/ Verse 33.) This quote shows how one would have to betray their family for their love to blossom, making the feud a primary obstacle. However, in Pyramus and Thisbe, the main obstacle is a physical barrier, a wall that separates the two young lovers. This barrier is expressed in the quote “And then they would scold the wall: ‘You envious barrier, Why get in our way?” (Page 1/ Paragraph 1, Line 18.) Their secret conversations through the crack in the wall emphasize the theme of forbidden love. Unfortunately, their fate is sealed when Thisbe mistakenly believes Pyramus to be dead, leading her to take her own life. Unlike Romeo and Juliet, the lovers in Pyramus and Thisbe never directly face each other while