Open Prompt 6 Revision

1984. Select a line or so of poetry, or a moment or scene in a novel, epic poem, or play that you find especially memorable. Write an essay in which you identify the line or the passage, explain its relationship to the work in which it is found, and analyze the reasons for its effectiveness.

Certain scenes from a play can be very memorable. Take the balcony scene from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. This scene can be described as both romantic and enjoyable, but more than that, it effectively creates a setup for the impending heartbreak and doom.

The balcony scene (Act II, Scene 2) of Romeo and Juliet is one that many remember. Romantic and spontaneous, Romeo and Juliet confess their love for each other in a way that can only be admired for centuries. However, the balcony scene later becomes remembered as one of the only romantic scenes before the tragic death of the star-crossed lovers. When both characters die an untimely death, readers look back at this scene and wish that Romeo and Juliet could be preserved in their “Balcony Scene” state.

This scene effectively causes remorse near the end of the plot by using vivid language. The poetic vibe and metaphors used help to create the romantic setting, such as when Romeo says “But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? / It is the East, and Juliet is the sun!” (Act II, Scene 2) , or when Juliet says “O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo? / Deny thy father and refuse thy name; / Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, / And I'll no longer be a Capulet.” (Act II, Scene 2). With the powerful language used in this passage, readers can feel a strong emotional connection and reverence to the characters, so when tragedy strikes, readers reminisce the balcony scene, which effectively bring tears to emotional readers.

Through strong and effective use of language, the balcony scene from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is remembered especially for the romantic and heartwarming vibe, as well as the tragic overtone to the play.