Shakespeare Figurative Language

Shakespeare, arguably, is one of the most credited and well-known writers. People of all ages have heard of Shakespeare. Shakespeare’s work is studied, criticized, praised, quoted, reenacted, and referenced. His work has affected many aspects of modern society including giving us many new words. The famous writer’s work is still referenced in modern society. In Taylor Swift’s song, Love Story, she referenced the story of Romeo and Juliet with the lyrics, “Little did I know that you were Romeo, you were throwing pebbles and my daddy said, ‘Stay away from Juliet.’” Additionally, according to Wyoming Catholic College’s website, some suggest that Shakespeare’s work, Julius Caesar, may have been an inspiration to John Wilks Booth in the assignation
Shakespeare used the power of words to give life to his character, Henry V. Shakespeare gave Henry V’s character words to rally strong emotions, and stir thoughts in Henry’s subjects. King Henry knew how to use language to his advantage. Before the battle with the French army, King Henry rallied his men with powerful language to help them overcome their discouragement upon discovering they were severely outnumbered by the French. Henry V knew that his men were disheartened and questioned the battle so he gave a speech of encouragement. In his speech he
He conveys this through his speech by using words such as: honor, brothers, and manhoods. These words bring powerful images to the mind. These words led the men into battle with a positive mindset, which affected the course of their battle. Near the end of the play, King Henry V decided to take the Princess of France to be his queen. Through their dialogue, Henry V used language to persuade Katherine to marry him. He accomplished this by wooing her with his words. He said,
Kate, whose face is not worth sunburning, that never looks in his glass for love of anything he sees there, let thine eye be thy cook. I speak to thee plain solider. If thou canst love me for this, take me. If not, to say to thee that I shall die is true, but for thy love, by the Lord, no. Yet I love thee too.“ (223)
Henry V used his words in a poetic form that evoked the emotion of love and romance. Words always have and always will hold a great power, and with this power comes a great responsibility. The common phrase, “the pen is mightier than the sword,” reminds society that words have real impact. Christians have the responsibility to use their words for good. Henry V used his words to motivate armies, and to woo his princess. Shakespeare used words to leave a lasting vocabulary, and enduring