How Does Shakespeare Use Figurative Language In Romeo And Juliet

In life, it is critical for adult figures to provide mature guidance to youth through actions, words, and thoughts so that inexperienced young people can avoid making poor choices in their developing lives. In William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, when adults do not provide adequate guidance and support to young people, through the use of figurative language, motifs, character, and conflict, they can make serious mistakes in their young, inexperienced lives. The first character to illustrate this is the Nurse, who uses figurative language excessively at poor times. The second set of characters who prove this are the parents of Romeo and Juliet, who set poor examples for their children, especially by creating conflict. The final character

The Montague and Capulet parents set a bad example especially for their children. The proof of this is the fact that the ongoing feud between the Capulet and Montague households is common knowledge to everyone in the area, but especially the family members. This exemplifies that the feud leaves impressions and provides an immature example for those around it. Next, the impressions set by the parents lead to immature, irrational actions. A case of this is when Tybalt says: “What, drawn, and talk of peace! I hate the word as I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee.” (Shakespeare, I.i.68-69) to Benvolio. This proves that Tybalt hates peace with Montagues, which is due to the influence from his parents. Finally, the lack of direction leads to rash decisions that would otherwise be avoided. An sample of this is the dramatic irony that occurs when Romeo kills himself, thinking that Juliet is dead. This action demonstrates that Romeo did not get guidance and a good example from adults, specifically his parents, that would have taught him that there is more to live for, and that he should think this action through thoroughly before following through with it. Together, this shows how the Montague and Capulet parents all affect the actions and thoughts of their kin through their

As a start, the Friar does not present himself as the adult, and acts based on the wishes of young, inexperienced people, without thinking of the consequences of his actions. The best demonstration of this is that he marries Romeo and Juliet, even though he is wary of the feud between their households as well as Romeo recently being in love with Rosaline. This shows how the Friar is aware of possible issues, but acts based on Romeo and Juliet’s belief that their love is fate. Next, the Friar does not always think his actions and ideas through thoroughly, which can lead to poor impressions on those around him. This is demonstrated when the Friar says “Take thou this vial, being then in bed, and this distilled liquor drink thou off.” (Shakespeare, IV.i.93-94). This is said as he is giving Juliet a potion to fake her death, however the poison is a symbol for death, which is ultimately all that occurs from Friar’s poorly thought out plan. Friar Laurence’s final few actions in the story display himself to be irresponsible and selfish. A quote from the Friar that best explains this is when he says: “Thy husband in thy bosom there lies dead; And Paris too. Come I’ll dispose of thee among a sisterhood of holy nuns. Stay not to question for the watch is coming. Come, go, good Juliet, I dare no stay longer.” (Shakespeare, V.iii.156-159). This