The exact quote about not swearing by the moon from William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is:
"O, swear not by the moon, th' inconstant moon,
That monthly changes in her circled orb,
Lest that thy love prove likewise variable."
This memorable line is spoken by Juliet to Romeo during the famous balcony scene (Act 2, Scene 2), where she urges him not to pledge his love by something as changeable and unreliable as the moon.
Context and Significance of the Quote
Juliet's plea to Romeo reflects her desire for a love that is constant and unwavering, unlike the phases of the moon. This quote highlights several key themes and aspects of their relationship:
- Inconstancy vs. True Love: Juliet perceives the moon as a symbol of change and variability. By asking Romeo not to swear by it, she expresses a profound wish for their love to be steadfast and eternal, rather than fleeting or unpredictable.
- Juliet's Wisdom: Despite her young age, Juliet demonstrates remarkable maturity and foresight. She is not swept away by Romeo's passionate declarations alone but seeks genuine commitment and reliability.
- Foreshadowing: The very concern about variability subtly foreshadows the tragic, tumultuous nature of their brief romance, which is marked by rapid changes in fortune and ultimately, an untimely end.
Quote Details
To provide a clearer understanding of the quote's place within the play, here's a quick reference:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Juliet |
| Addressee | Romeo |
| Play | Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare |
| Location | Act 2, Scene 2 (The Balcony Scene) |
| Meaning | A caution against vowing love by an inconstant object, fearing the love itself may become variable. |
Why is this Quote Important?
The "swear not by the moon" line is crucial for several reasons:
- Character Development: It showcases Juliet's pragmatism and depth, distinguishing her from a purely romantic idealist. She desires a love grounded in reality and constancy.
- Poetic Imagery: Shakespeare masterfully uses the "inconstant moon" as a powerful metaphor for changeability, enriching the language and themes of the play.
- Enduring Relevance: The sentiment behind the quote—the desire for unwavering commitment in love—remains universally relatable, making it one of Shakespeare's most quoted and analyzed lines.
This quote serves as a pivotal moment in the balcony scene, revealing Juliet's anxieties and hopes for a love that defies the unpredictable nature of the world.
