Mercutio’s use of figurative language demonstrates the Great Chain of Being because of his intelligence when compared to the lower class who are not as high or educated as he. This further demonstrates society and perspective of that time. Mercutio is a kinsman to the Prince of Verona, who is high on the Great Chain of Being due to this status. It is then fair to say that Mercutio would also be higher up on the chain than others, like the Nurse and Peter. Mercutio demonstrates this intelligence by telling Romeo “True, I talk of dreams; /Which are the children of an idle brain, /Begot of nothing but vain fantasy;” (I. iv. 105-107). This is figurative language because of the use of symbolism, a form of the author’s craft. He is symbolizing the
