Romeo and Juliet-Act 2 scene 2 - Balcony scene

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Romeo and Juliet-Act 2 scene 2 - Balcony scene        

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 overcome the mistakes of their parents. When she asks, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose By any other name would smell just as sweet," what Juliet means is the rose would always be sweet whatever it's name, it is the perfect analogy of the situation. Even though both their families are at war, it does not mean that, that should get in the way of their love.

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        The 16th century scene is still relevant today as it was then. The Romeo and Juliet situation n could be created by divided society e.g. people from opposite sides of a war, falling in love, for example Northern Ireland or Israel.

        There is a sense of physical longing between the characters in the scene. Romeo and Juliet long for each other, there is a sexual tension running through the scene. This shown in their vows to each other: such as when Romeo asks he:” What shall I swear by?" And she replies:” Do not swear at all; or, if though ...

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