What Are Examples of Foreshadowing in the Play “Romeo and Juliet”?
A primary example of foreshadowing in William Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet” occurs in Act 1, Scene 2, when Benvolio tells Romeo, “Take thou some new infection to thy eye, And the rank poison of the old will die.” Romeo, encouraged by Benvolio, soon forgets about his old flame Rosaline when he first lays eyes on Juliet.
In literature, foreshadowing is a technique that forewarns the readers of what lies ahead. Shakespeare employs this literary tool throughout his tragedy “Romeo and Juliet.” In Act 2, Scene 5, Friar Laurence advises the lovers to be cautious in love, “These violent delights have violent ends … Therefore love moderately.” The tragic death of the two lovers is also foreshadowed by Romeo’s suicidal notions and Juliet’s recurring morbid thoughts which she expresses in Act 1, Scene 5, saying, “My grave is like to be my wedding bed.”