Courtly Love

Claudio- Quotation Claudio- “In mine eye she is the sweetest lady that ever I looked on.”

Explanation This shows that their love is only based on appearance and not reality. Without even exchanging a single word between one another, Claudio has decided that he loves Hero.

Claudio- Quotation Claudio- “Can the world buy such a jewel?”

Explanation Claudio is in “love” at first sight. Claudio and Hero’s love is built on nothing but physical attraction which we know will not last.

Claudio- Quotation Claudio- “ I would scarce trust myself though I had sworn the contrary, if Hero would be my wife.”

Explanation Claudio was once a person who decided not to marry. His opinion on marriage has changed completely now Hero is to be his wife.

Leonato Leonato- ““Daughter, remember what I told you. If the prince do solicit you in that kind, you know your answer.”

Explanation An example of how courtly love operates. Leonato tells his daughter to say yes when someone of a high status seeks her hand in marriage.

Borachio “He swore he would marry her tonight.”

Explanation Courtly love would happen as soon as possible because the sooner the couple married the sooner they share fortune.

Don Pedro “I have wooed in thy name, and fair Hero is won. I have broke with her father and his good will obtained.”

Explanation In this case Don Pedro has set up a marriage proposal between Hero and Claudio by informing Leonato.

Leonato “Count, take me of my daughter, and with her my fortunes.”

Explanation This is how courtly love would operate. Hero would inherit Leonato’s wealth and then share it with Claudio.

Claudio “Tomorrow, my lord. Time goes on crutches till love have all his rites.”

Explanation Courtly love would happen as soon as possible because the sooner the couple married the sooner they would share fortune.

Hero “I will do any modest office, my lord, to help my cousin to a good husband.”

Explanation Courtly love would also happen in this way, by other people helping two particular people get together.