“O! she doth teach the torches to burn bright It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night Like a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear; Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear.- Romeo -”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Romeo in Shakespeare's play, "Romeo and Juliet," Romeo is expressing his admiration for Juliet's beauty. The metaphor comparing Juliet to a jewel in an Ethiop's ear highlights the uniqueness and exquisite nature of her beauty. Romeo's use of imagery, such as "teaching the torches to burn bright," conveys the intensity and brilliance of Juliet's presence. Overall, this quote captures Romeo's deep infatuation with Juliet and sets the tone for the passionate and romantic love story that follows.
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Romeo is captivated by Juliet's beauty and compares her to a radiant jewel. This imagery of beauty and light resonates with modern audiences, reminding us of the enduring power and allure of physical attraction and love. Romeo's poetic description continues to capture the universal experience of being entranced by someone's beauty, transcending time and cultural barriers.
Example of Usage
One of the most famous quotes from William Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, this passage beautifully describes Romeo's infatuation with Juliet. The language used creates vivid imagery and evokes strong emotions, showcasing Shakespeare's mastery of words.
Reflection Questions:
This quote from Romeo's soliloquy in Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet" highlights the intense and overwhelming nature of love. Reflecting upon this passage, consider the following questions:
- How does Shakespeare use imagery in this passage to convey Romeo's feelings towards Juliet?
- What does Romeo's comparison of Juliet to a "rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear" suggest about his perception of her beauty?
- In what ways does Romeo's language in this passage reveal his deep admiration and infatuation for Juliet?
- How does the language and tone of this passage contribute to the overall theme of forbidden love in the play?
- Do you believe that Romeo's description of Juliet as "too rich for use, for earth too dear" accurately captures the intensity of his emotions? Why or why not?
Similar quotes
“Ah, she doth teach the torches to burn bright, it seems she hangs against the cheek of night like a rich jewel from an Ethiope's ear, beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear.”
“Oh, she doth teach the torches to burn bright!It seems she hangs upon the cheek of nightLike a rich jewel in an Ethiope’s ear,Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear.So shows a snowy dove trooping with crowsAs yonder lady o'er her fellows shows.The measure done, I’ll watch her place of stand,And, touching hers, make blessèd my rude hand.Did my heart love till now? Forswear it, sight!For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night.”
“He’d lapped at her ankles like a lovesick pup, and she’d been exactly what she was now, a woman born too beautiful and too rich to worry about a small thing like integrity.”
“She burned too bright for this world.”
“She discovered, when it was too late, that she had mistaken the means for the end—that riches, rightly used, are instruments of happiness, but are not in themselves happiness.”