Death of thy soul! Those linen cheeks of thine are counsellors to fear

Death of thy soul! Those linen cheeks of thine are counsellors to fear

The line "Death of thy soul! Those linen cheeks of thine are counsellors to fear" is a powerful and evocative statement from William Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet". In this scene, Romeo is speaking to Juliet, lamenting the fact that her pale complexion is a sign of death and fear. The use of the word "linen" to describe Juliet's cheeks adds to the imagery of death, as linen is often associated with burial shrouds.

The phrase "Death of thy soul" suggests that Romeo believes Juliet's outward appearance reflects the state of her inner being. Her pale cheeks are seen as a reflection of the fear and despair that she is experiencing. This line captures the intense emotions and dramatic language that are characteristic of Shakespeare's writing.

Throughout the play, Shakespeare uses imagery and symbolism to convey the themes of love, death, and fate. Juliet's pale complexion is a recurring motif that symbolizes her impending doom. In this scene, Romeo's words serve as a foreshadowing of the tragic events that will unfold.

The use of the word "counsellors" in this line is particularly striking. It suggests that Juliet's cheeks are not just a physical attribute, but also a source of guidance or advice. In this context, they are seen as harbingers of death and fear, warning Romeo of the tragic fate that awaits them.

Overall, this line is a poignant and haunting expression of the themes of love and death that permeate "Romeo and Juliet". Shakespeare's use of language and imagery creates a sense of foreboding and tragedy that resonates with audiences to this day. The line serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death, making it a powerful and memorable moment in the play.