14th March 2017

Analysis Essay

Analysis Essay

METAPHOR IN ROMEO AND JULIET

How does Shakespeare use metaphor to show Romeos inner thoughts in Act 1, Scene 4 of Romeo and Juliet?

“He that hath steerage of my course, direct my sail…”.                                                                   – comparing himself to a vessel captained by god.

Shakespeare uses a variety of different metaphors to make the thought of the characters known to the audience. In Act 1, scene 4, Romeo is recounting a bad dream that he encountered that said something bad would happen that night to lead to his untimely death. In this scene Romeo states “He that hath steerage of my course, direct my sail”. Shakespeare then portrays Romeo as a boat by using text like “course”, “steerage” and “sail”. By using a capital “H” in “He” he suggests that god is captain of the ship.

In this metaphor Shakespeare is explaining that Romeo is therefore going to surrender himself to path that god has paved for him.

 

Join the conversation! 1 Comment

  1. This is a very nicely reasoned paragraph that provides a clear explanation of how Shakespeare uses metaphor. You example is clear and detailed and your interpretation is spot on.

    As the play develops you’ll notice the importance of this moment.

    Nice work.

    Reply

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