When Romeo states that Rosaline "will not be hit with Cupid's arrow," he means she will not fall in love, specifically with him, because she has chosen to remain chaste.
Romeo's declaration refers to Rosaline's vow of perpetual chastity, signifying that she is immune to the romantic desires that Cupid's arrows traditionally inspire.
Understanding the Allusion to Cupid
Cupid was the god of love and attraction, often seen with a bow and arrow used to smite the intended person. According to classical mythology, those "smit with" his arrows are destined to fall deeply in love. In Romeo and Juliet, Romeo uses this classical allusion to lament his unrequited love for Rosaline.
- Cupid's Role: As the god of desire, Cupid's arrows are symbolic of irresistible infatuation and romantic passion.
- The "Hit": To be "hit" implies falling under the spell of love, often suddenly and powerfully.
In this context, Romeo is stating that Rosaline will not be 'hit' with Cupid's arrow, meaning she will not fall in love with him, or indeed, with anyone, as her commitment is to chastity.
Rosaline's Chastity and Romeo's Despair
Rosaline has chosen to remain a virgin, vowing to live a life of chastity, similar to a nun or one dedicated to the goddess Diana. This vow makes her impervious to the romantic advances of any suitor, including Romeo.
Romeo's observation highlights his initial state of melancholic despair at the beginning of the play:
- Unrequited Love: His deep infatuation with Rosaline is not reciprocated, leading to his profound sadness.
- Rosaline's Immutability: Her commitment to chastity means no amount of wooing or affection from Romeo can sway her heart. She is "proof" against love's assault.
This initial heartbreak is crucial to Romeo's character development, setting the stage for his intense and immediate passion for Juliet later in the play. His experience with Rosaline emphasizes the depth of his capacity for love, albeit initially misdirected.
Key Implications of Romeo's Statement
| Aspect | Meaning for Romeo's Statement |
|---|---|
| Cupid's Arrow | Symbolizes romantic love, desire, and infatuation. |
| "Not Be Hit" | Indicates immunity to love; Rosaline will not fall in love. |
| Rosaline's Vow | She has chosen a life of chastity, rendering her impervious to romantic advances. |
| Romeo's Emotional State | He is consumed by unrequited love, expressing deep melancholy and poetic suffering. |
| Dramatic Purpose | Establishes Romeo's romantic nature and sets the contrast for his later love for Juliet. |
This statement underscores Romeo's initial dramatic character as a Petrarchan lover, someone who suffers exquisitely from the pains of unrequited love.
For further reading on literary allusions in Shakespeare's works, explore resources like the Folger Shakespeare Library.
