preview

How Does Shakespeare Use Allusions In Romeo And Juliet

Good Essays

Umberto Eco once quoted, “Never affirm, always allude: allusions are made to test the spirit and probe the heart.” The use of allusions in Shakespeare's literature helps the reader grasp a deeper, more in depth understanding of what love truly is and what it is capable of. Allusions are key features of literary works including one of Shakespeare's most famous pieces, Romeo and Juliet. In Shakespeare's The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, he uses allusions to connect his writing to several related myths and legends including the Greek gods, Phoebus and Phaeton, the goddess Diana, and Cupid. The use of Shakespeare’s allusions helps the reader to glance into the mind of the characters, as well as providing a spotlight on their yearnful personas. Throughout the tragic tale of …show more content…

After Romeo finds out that Rosaline has no interest in him, he becomes very depressed and in a very dark mood. Mercutio, Romeo’s best friend, tries giving advice to him by adding, “You are a lover. Borrow Cupid’s wings and soar with them above a common bound.” (I.iv.17-18). Mercutio uses this allusion as a way of telling Romeo that he needs to look beyond Rosaline because there are many other people in the world that he could fall in love with. Mercutio tries to explain to Romeo that he needs to find someone that loves him as much as he loves the other person back. Romeo replies, “ I am too sore enpierced with his shaft to soar with his light feathers, and so bound I cannot bound a pitch above dull woe. Under love’s heavy burden I do sink.” (I.iv.19-22). It’s obvious to Mercutio that Romeo isn’t able to get Rosaline off his mind, so Mercutio tries to suggest going to the Capulet’s party in hope of finding a new lover. Although Romeo deeply loves Rosaline, he’s in the process of being taught what true love is even though he doesn’t know

Get Access