The significance of the use of symbolisms Symbolism is a literary device that adds additional layers of meaning to the text it can be found in every masterpiece because symbolism accelerates not only the communication itself but also the identification of ideas. In the play Romeo and Juliet written by William Shakespeare in the 1590s uses symbolism to explore enduring themes such as love, fate and revenge. The play, which tells the tragic story of star crossed lovers Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet within feuding families, uses a variety of symbolisms to not only emphasize and determine the tragic endings, but also deepen and reinforce the audience’s understanding of the play. These symbols contribute to the feelings of misfortune and despair …show more content…
In Juliet’s balcony soliloquy, in which she asks, “Oh 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” (II. ii. 36). Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet are individuals that often hamstrung by the identities forced upon them from outside. The name is not only an identification from others but also a self-identification. The identity plays as the central obstacle of the play which two passionate lovers Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet are separated because of the family feud based on their names and identities. And also in Act III scene I, Mercutio says “Or shall I faint. A plague o’both your houses! They had made worms meat of me. I have it, And soundly two, Your houses.” (III. i. 1000). This quotation shows that a strong sense of identity can force the separation between characters. Even Mercutio, who is neither a Montague, nor a Capulet, is killed for his association with these families. The identities trigger the tragic ending of the play. Romeo and Juliet, the liveliest characters die not because who they are, but because of the labels that the outside world has foisted upon