When Romeo learns of Juliet's "death" (Act 5 Scene 1), he plans to be join her and goes to an apothecary to buy poison.
The question I have is why did he choose to use poison on HIMSELF rather than a dagger, to join Juliet?
Ie. What was Shakespeare's intent on making Romeo use poison rather than a dagger to ?
Daggers are bloody and messy -- and sometimes people chicken out!
Shakespeare was fond of using poison, either for killing others (one of King Lear's daughters and Hamlet's father, among others) or for suicide (Romeo).
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/
http://nfs.sparknotes.com/
http://www.online-literature.com/shakespeare/romeo_and_juliet/
Thank you. That was the best response I found on the internet. And believe me, I searched.
Again, thank you.
Here are several other really good websites about Shakespeare and his works and his times. Be sure to add ALL THESE to your favorites so you can find them again.
http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/
http://www.shakespeare-online.com/
http://www.bardweb.net/
http://www.enotes.com/william-shakespeare/
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/
Shakespeare's choice of having Romeo use poison rather than a dagger to serves several purposes in the story.
Firstly, the choice of poison aligns with the theme of tragedy and the inevitability of fate in the play. Poison is a slow and agonizingly painful method of death, symbolizing the overwhelming despair and sense of hopelessness felt by Romeo upon hearing of Juliet's apparent death. It emphasizes the tragic nature of their love, as Romeo is willing to endure suffering to be with Juliet in the afterlife.
Secondly, the use of poison adds a degree of dramatic suspense to the scene. Poison takes time to take effect, allowing for a dramatic exchange between Romeo and the audience. It allows for moments of reflection and introspection, as Romeo contemplates his actions and reflects on the consequences of his choices.
Furthermore, Shakespeare's choice of poison instead of a dagger highlights the contrast between violence and tragedy. Using a dagger would bring a swift end to Romeo's life, but the use of poison adds a layer of complexity and emphasizes the emotional turmoil that Romeo experiences. It showcases the tragic consequences of rash actions driven by intense emotions.
Overall, Shakespeare's intent in having Romeo use poison instead of a dagger to is to create a more nuanced and emotionally resonant scene, underscoring the themes of tragedy, fate, and the powerful effects of love and loss.