Balcony Scnece in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

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Balcony Scnece in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

The balcony scene in and Romeo and Juliet is the most iconic and

recognised scene, because it represents young love, and symbolises the

power of youth, as Romeo and Juliet try to put right the mistakes of

their elders. The scene shows how their love over comes their

difficulties. Romeo wooing Juliet at the balcony is a ideal romantic

situation, as it is still relevant today. There is also a little

sexual tension between them.

The balcony scene is very simple but effective. There are only two

characters, and the nurse's voice, which adds suspense to the scene.

The lovers are separated by a balcony, which symbolises the problems

they must overcome. The effectiveness of the scene comes from the

language. As there are few distractions in the scene, the audience can

concentrate on Romeo, Juliet and their language.

There is a certain beauty in the language, especially in the way Romeo

speaks. This is kept at a poetic standard throughout the scene, for

example, "It is the east and Juliet is the sun!" Juliet on the other

hand does not always talk this way, but adapts it from Romeo.

Both Romeo and Juliet want to be close to one another, but are parted

by the balcony wall. They are determined and confident that their love

can overcome any difficulties, for example: Romeo, "With love's light

wings did I o'erperch these walls; For stony limits cannot hold love

out." He believes love has given him wings.

Juliet is very practical and clever. She suggests that she and Romeo,

should be married. The marriage of the young lovers should unite the

two houses at war. Doing so would over...

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... he not Romeo call'd Retain that dear perfection which he owes." She

also expresses how love has opened all her senses: "My ears have yet

not drunk a hundred words." Meanin g Romeos words are like wine to

her, and her sense have been awakened by her love for him, for example

the imagery of mouths, drinking etc.

The balcony scene is one of the most important, iconic and famous in

the play; it is one of the rare romatic moments Romeo and Juliet have

together. The scene represents so much, but performed in a traditional

way, though it can be boring for the audience an deffective at the

same time. Modern adapted versions are often better for example;

Luhrman's Romeo and Juliet, is fast paced, and keeps the audiences'

attention all the way through. The scene is effective, but was more so

when it was first written.

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