Use Of Metaphors In Romeo And Juliet

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English Essay In the play “Romeo and Juliet”, William Shakespeare is known for his brilliant word choices and figurative language. Romeo and Juliet follows the basic plot line of star crossed lovers, with conflicted families whose love is kept a secret in order to keep their relationship which ultimately ends in tragedy. Although Romeo and Juliet follows a basic plot line, it is Shakespeare’s word choices that set him apart from other writers of his time and what eventually made him the one of the greatest writers of all time. Shakespeare's use of metaphors makes his writing more compelling, which ultimately makes his writing more influential. Benvolio tries to convince Romeo to go to the Capulet party to get over Rosaline. Romeo …show more content…

Benvolio is worried about Romeo because he has a sorrowful mood, this is caused by his love for Rosaline and the absence of hers for him. Benvolio confused asks Romeo how he’s feeling and he describes his condition as, “Feather of a lead, bright smoke, cold fire, sick health” (1.1.183) Shakespeare uses these oxmorons to show Romeo’s rollercoaster of emotions. The phrase “sick health” refers to the fact that Romeo is physically health but mentally and emotionally he is unwell. After the party Juliet and Romeo share a moment at Juliet’s balcony. Romeo, sad to leave his conversation with Juliet, begs them to stay with each other but Juliet proclaims, “Goodnight, goodnight! Parting is such sweet sorrow, That I shall say goodnight till it be morrow”.(2.2.184) Once again oxymorons are used to show the conflicting emotions between the characters, such as Romeo and Juliet not wanting to part ways. The phrase “Sweet sorrow” is used to express the fact that they will be sad to go but excited to return again. Shakespeare is one of the most famous playwrights of all time for his choice of words and figurative language such as