Key learning points

1. Romeo’s language implies that he values Juliet for herself.
2. In contrast, Romeo’s language suggests that he valued the chase for Rosaline rather than her.
3. Romeo’s use of oxymorons suggests that he sees his love for Rosaline as something uncertain and conflicting.
4. However, he describes his love for Juliet in physical terms which suggests it is more substantial.
5. Romeo suggests that, while he is losing himself, his love for Juliet means he’s joining something greater than himself.

Keywords

• Abstract - existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence

• Substantial - not imaginary or illusory: real, true; important

• Objectification - the act or an instance of treating a person as an object or thing

• Oxymoron - two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings

• Celestial - positioned in or relating to the sky, or outer space e.g. sun, moon, stars

Common misconception