Explore the ways in which Shakespeare presents the power of the love between Romeo and Juliet - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1

Shakespeare presents the power of love between Romeo and Juliet through their passionate dialogue and the depth of their emotions. In the quoted extract, Romeo's admiration for Juliet is evident when he calls her a 'bright angel' and a 'winged messenger of heaven.' This language not only elevates Juliet's status in Romeo's eyes but also symbolizes the purity and transcendence of their love.

Juliet's soliloquy further emphasizes the struggle of their love against societal constraints. Her lament, 'O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?' signifies her deep conflict over the feud between their families. The power of their love challenges the entrenched identities imposed by their last names, as Juliet wishes Romeo to 'doff' his name, indicating that love transcends societal boundaries.

Moreover, the metaphor of a rose in Juliet’s speech — 'that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet' — illustrates the idea that their love is innate and pure, irrespective of their family ties. Through such rich imagery and heartfelt expression, Shakespeare underscores the profound and transformative power of love that defies convention and adversity.