The History of English Podcast Episode 175: The English of Romeo and Juliet
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Mar 25, 2024 Exploring the linguistic nuances and pronunciation changes in Shakespeare's works, highlighting the evolution of terms and sounds in Early Modern English. Delving into the historical evolution of English pronunciation, tracing the disappearance of hard 'g' sounds and the development of the ING sound. Analyzing Shakespeare's linguistic techniques in Romeo and Juliet, focusing on syntax, word order, and Juliet's contemplation on names. Exploring the evolution of vowel sounds in Elizabethan English, impacting words like 'bob' and 'cough, and hinting at the emergence of a distinct American accent.
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Use of Verse in Romeo and Juliet
- Shakespeare uses varied verse in his plays, from prose to iambic pentameter to rhyming verse.
- In Romeo and Juliet, their first dialogue is a sonnet, highlighting their instant connection.
Ben Crystal's Quill Analogy
- Ben Crystal explains Shakespeare's quill analogy for speech styles: prose, poetry, rhyming poetry, sonnet, and song.
- Romeo and Juliet's sonnet exchange at their first meeting signifies a special encounter.
Mercutio's Censored Analogy
- Mercutio's bawdy fruit analogy about Romeo's desires was censored in early prints.
- The "open arse" and "poperin pear" alluded to a medlar and pear, respectively.