The works of William Shakespeare are some of the most timeless stories in English literature. His exploration of universal values secures them among the most loved stories. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet (R&J) is one of the best known of his plays.
Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film Romeo+Juliet (R+J) is an appropriation that is loyal to R&J but adapted to suit a modern audience. One of the most enduring themes addressed by both texts are the struggles of individuals against societal mores and the dramatic influences of institutions on individuals. R+J recontextualises this value to be more accessible for a modern audience.
This becomes evident through a close examination of the ideas, themes and textual conventions of R&J and how they have been appropriated …show more content…
In the words of Luhrmann, “The tragedy that is born of a prohibited love in a world of learned hate” appeals to people from all walks of life.
Romeo and Juliet 's love is prohibited directly and indirectly by social institutions. These barriers are mainly embodied in the feud between the Montagues and Capulets. Romeo and juliet fall in love so are plagued with guilt when they discover each other’s identity. The emotional burden of their indiscretion is clearly seen in Act 1 scene 5. Juliet explains their impossible predicament,
“My only love sprung from my only hate!”
This dialogue uses paradox to highlight the futility of their plight. The comparison between ‘love’ and ‘hate’ emphasises the barriers that oppose the existence of their love. This paradox also highlights the inner turmoil within the individuals, rooted in their loyalty to, and subsequent betrayal of, their families.
Accordingly, one of R+J’s main societal institutions is the feud between the Montagues and Capulets. However, instead of political, they are megacorporate …show more content…
With this in mind, the setting of the lovers’ first meeting is changed from a masked ball to a garish costume party.
Because the modern audience is predominantly visually orientated, the film medium allows Luhrmann to present the story and the issues it addresses in a way that is appealing and accessible to a modern audience.
Instead of paradox, Luhrmann has used its visual equivalent. The bright, clashing, colours and racing, occasionally discordant music creates a sinister atmosphere. This visual cacophony represents the passionate conflict between the families.
It is contrasted when Romeo and Juliet first meet in a bathroom where the wash of blue light coupled with slow, melodic music creates an atmosphere of purity and tranquility.
The juxtaposition of visual imagery in this scene emphasises the separation of their love from what is accepted in society. The sanctuary provided by the anonymity of the party enabled their love to form against the powerful force of their families’ enmity and the prejudices of society.
This scene reinforces the notion that societal institutions can create great conflict between the duties they demand and those demanded by the personal desires of the individual.
Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film Romeo+Juliet (R+J) is an appropriation that is loyal to R&J but adapted to suit a modern audience. One of the most enduring themes addressed by both texts are the struggles of individuals against societal mores and the dramatic influences of institutions on individuals. R+J recontextualises this value to be more accessible for a modern audience.
This becomes evident through a close examination of the ideas, themes and textual conventions of R&J and how they have been appropriated …show more content…
In the words of Luhrmann, “The tragedy that is born of a prohibited love in a world of learned hate” appeals to people from all walks of life.
Romeo and Juliet 's love is prohibited directly and indirectly by social institutions. These barriers are mainly embodied in the feud between the Montagues and Capulets. Romeo and juliet fall in love so are plagued with guilt when they discover each other’s identity. The emotional burden of their indiscretion is clearly seen in Act 1 scene 5. Juliet explains their impossible predicament,
“My only love sprung from my only hate!”
This dialogue uses paradox to highlight the futility of their plight. The comparison between ‘love’ and ‘hate’ emphasises the barriers that oppose the existence of their love. This paradox also highlights the inner turmoil within the individuals, rooted in their loyalty to, and subsequent betrayal of, their families.
Accordingly, one of R+J’s main societal institutions is the feud between the Montagues and Capulets. However, instead of political, they are megacorporate …show more content…
With this in mind, the setting of the lovers’ first meeting is changed from a masked ball to a garish costume party.
Because the modern audience is predominantly visually orientated, the film medium allows Luhrmann to present the story and the issues it addresses in a way that is appealing and accessible to a modern audience.
Instead of paradox, Luhrmann has used its visual equivalent. The bright, clashing, colours and racing, occasionally discordant music creates a sinister atmosphere. This visual cacophony represents the passionate conflict between the families.
It is contrasted when Romeo and Juliet first meet in a bathroom where the wash of blue light coupled with slow, melodic music creates an atmosphere of purity and tranquility.
The juxtaposition of visual imagery in this scene emphasises the separation of their love from what is accepted in society. The sanctuary provided by the anonymity of the party enabled their love to form against the powerful force of their families’ enmity and the prejudices of society.
This scene reinforces the notion that societal institutions can create great conflict between the duties they demand and those demanded by the personal desires of the individual.