Intertextuality and Transformation in Romeo and Juliet

Shakespeare’s use of the sonnet form in Romeo and Juliet is an example of intertextuality and
transformation. Explain how this is so and what function the sonnet serves in the play? Consider the
following: How does the form of the sonnet relate to, adhere to or deviate from the form of the play
(think about dramatic conventions vs. poetic conventions) and what effect does this have on the play’s
structure? Why would Shakespeare include an intricate love poem in a play meant to be performed?
How do the sonnets incorporate or highlight major themes or motifs in the play? REFER to specific
aspects of the three sonnets in the play in order to support your answer.

Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is an intriguing play incorporating sonnets.

using these sonnets they create a unique intertextuality and transformation. A sonnet is a
14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme, that we normally associate with themes of
love, intimacy, and morality. This is perfect for “Romeo and Juliet” as it is a passionate
love story. A sonnet is a fourteen-line poem that is typically written in iambic pentameter.
The sonnets within “Romeo and Juliet” are not always written in iambic pentameter. For
example, the sonnets in “Romeo and Juliet” don’t always follow the traditional rhyme
scheme or iambic pentameter of a normal sonnet.
In Act 1, Scene 5, Romeo and Juliet are seen trading sonnets expressing their deep
love. Romeo articulates, "If I profane with my unworthiest hand / This holy shrine, the
gentle sin is this: / My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand / To smooth that rough
touch with a tender kiss" (Romeo and Juliet 1.5.93-96). In this sonnet, it grasps the
beauty of Romeo and Juliet's theme of love and the sheer passion between them both.
In addition, the sonnets emphasize the themes of beauty and mortality. In Act 3,
Scene 2, Juliet is seen comparing Romeo to the sun within a sonnet “Arise, fair sun, and
kill the envious moon, / Who is already sick and pale with grief, / That thou her maid art
far more fair than she" (Rom. 3.2.1-3) This sonnet explores the theme of beauty of
Romeo, while also introducing the theme of morality, as Juliet equals Romeo to a sun.
In conclusion, Shakespeare’s use of the sonnet in Romeo and Juliet showcases the
intertextuality and transformation inside the play. These sonnets serve as an expression of
the passionate love between “Romeo and Juliet.” They also highlight the themes of love,
morality, and beauty while shaping the play through.