The dialogue between Romeo and Juliet in this excerpt from Act I, scene v of “Romeo and Juliet” is a playful and flirtatious exchange that uses religious imagery to create a metaphor for kissing. Romeo compares himself to a pilgrim and Juliet to a saint, suggesting that his lips are like pilgrims that wish to pray (kiss) the saint (Juliet). Juliet plays along with the metaphor, acknowledging that pilgrims do indeed pray with their lips. Romeo then cleverly suggests that if lips do what hands do (in prayer), they should not despair (be without hope) but instead take action, implying that they should kiss.

Shakespeare is using this structure to develop Romeo’s character as he persuades Juliet to kiss him. He is being romantic and persuasive, using the metaphor of saints and pilgrims to suggest a kiss in a respectful yet playful manner.

Solution By Steps

Step 1: Analyze the Dialogue

Romeo uses religious imagery to equate a kiss with a holy act, and Juliet follows the metaphor.

Step 2: Identify the Purpose

The purpose of this exchange is to show Romeo’s romantic and persuasive side as he seeks a kiss from Juliet.

Final Answer

Shakespeare uses the structure of these lines to develop Romeo’s character as he persuades Juliet to kiss him.

Key Concept

Character Development

Key Concept Explanation

Shakespeare often uses metaphors and wordplay to develop his characters, revealing their intentions and personalities through their dialogue.