Technique to theme: Imagery Romeo and Juliet Technique to theme: Imagery

Themes as Thesis Statements “Fate is a theme in Romeo and Juliet”. Not good enough! “the poet uses language” Doh! Express your comments on theme as thesis statements e.g. “Shakespeare foregrounds the notion that the two lovers were fated to die as it was the only way to “bury their parents strife” Where is the evidence?

Imagery as Evidence: Destiny Task 1: Search the text for references to “stars”, “heaven”, “fortune” etc. E.G. Prologue: “star-crossed lovers” (line 6) Task 1: Find at least three more examples in the play

Imagery as irony: Love BENVOLIO At this same ancient feast of Capulet’s Sups the fair Rosaline whom thou so loves With all the admired beauties of Verona. Go thither, and with unattainted eye Compare her face with some that I shall show, And I will make thee think thy swan a crow. (1, ii, 82-87)

Imagery as Irony: Love ROMEO When the devout religion of mine eye Maintains such falsehood, then turn tears to fires, And these, who, often drowned, could never die, Transparent heretics, be burnt for liars! One fairer than my love? The all-seeing sun Ne'er saw her match since first the world begun. (1,ii,88-93)

Find the evidence! Task 2: Search the play and find where this imagery is repeated for an ironic effect. How does this construction of Romeo position the audience to view him as a character? How are we positioned to view Romeo’s capacity to love? (Snoopy) Why do you think that Zefferelli and Luhrmann have elected to leave this initial scene out?

Imagery as Irony: Love Hints: Act 1, Scene 5 Act 2, Scene 2