Explore the ways in which Shakespeare presents the power of the love between Romeo and Juliet - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1

In this play, Shakespeare uses various literary devices to emphasize the profound love between Romeo and Juliet.

1. Idealization of Juliet

Romeo describes Juliet as a 'bright angel,' which signifies not only her beauty but also her purity and celestial nature. This idealization highlights his deep admiration and the strength of his emotions, suggesting that love elevates one’s perception of their partner to almost divine levels.

2. The Theme of Identity

The famous line 'O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?' denotes Juliet’s inner conflict between her love for Romeo and the social implications of their feuding families. Her willingness to abandon her identity as a Capulet for love emphasizes the transformative power that love holds.

3. The Use of Metaphor

The metaphor comparing Romeo to a winged messenger of heaven indicates not only the height of his romantic appeal but also signifies love’s ability to transcend earthly constraints. Through this metaphor, Shakespeare illustrates the extraordinary impact of love on the lovers’ lives.

4. Emotion and Defiance

Juliet’s declaration, 'Deny thy father and refuse thy name,' represents her defiance against societal expectations for the sake of love. This suggests that true love is not just a feeling but a force that can motivate individuals to challenge familial loyalty and societal norms.

5. Symbolism of Names

The discussion regarding names, where Juliet notes that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, suggests that love transcends identity and social divides. This reveals how powerful their love is, able to challenge the boundaries set by their families.

By analyzing these various elements, one can see how Shakespeare uses language and themes to portray the power of love between Romeo and Juliet, showcasing its ability to inspire, elevate, and challenge societal norms.