romeo Flashcards
Romeo Quote 1
Act 1 ‘Locks fair daylight out, And makes himself an artificial night’
(said by Lord Montague)
This highlights the solace Romeo finds in darkness, symbolizing his desire to isolate himself from the world which the reader later founds out is due to the heartbreak of his unrequited love for Rosaline. RA would sympathise with Romeo as Petrarchan love was prevalent at the time.
Romeo Quote 2
Act 1 ‘Here’s much to do with hate, but more with love’/ O brawling love, O loving hate’
The juxtaposition of the terms “love” and “hate” demonstrates Romeo’s inner turmoil and disorientation due to Petrarchan love. Furthermore, the interplay of the opposing force “love” and “hate” demonstrates that one cannot come without the other.
Romeo quote 3
“Thy beauty hath made me effeminate, / And in my temper soften’d valour’s steel!”
(Act 3, Scene 1)
Romeo blames Juliet’s “beauty” for making him “effeminate”, suggesting that love has weakened his masculinity and dulled his courage. The metaphor “soften’d valour’s steel” implies that his honour and bravery have been compromised, revealing the inner conflict between love and masculinity and reflecting the toxic expectations of male honour in the violent society of Verona
Romeo quote 4
Act4
“Contempt and beggary upon thy back / The world is not thy friend, nor the world’s law”
Romeo’s line “The world is not thy friend, nor the world’s law” reveals his despair and disillusionment, showing he no longer believes in justice or humanity. His self-destructive mindset after losing Juliet highlights the depth of his emotional dependence on her, emphasising how their intense love leaves him unable to cope with loss
Romeo quote 5
“Here’s to my love! [Drinks.] O true apothecary! / Thy drugs are quick. Thus with a kiss I die.” – Romeo (Act 5, Scene 3)
Romeo’s final line blends love and death, showing how deeply intertwined they have become. The phrase “Here’s to my love” reads like a toast, turning suicide into an act of romantic devotion, while “Thus with a kiss I die” presents death as peaceful and intimate, reinforcing the idea that Romeo sees no life without Juliet. His calm acceptance also reflects fate’s control, as every action has led inevitably to this tragic end.
