That Which We Call A Rose Quote
William Shakespeare, one of the greatest playwrights of all time, once wrote, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." This line is from his play Romeo and Juliet, where Juliet argues that it doesn't matter that Romeo is from the rival Montague family; she loves him for who he is, not his name.
The Meaning Behind the Quote
Shakespeare's quote means that the name of something doesn't change its essence. A rose would still smell as sweet if it were called something else. Juliet's point is that Romeo would still be the person she loves, even if he had a different name or came from a different family.
This quote is often used to talk about the importance of substance over style. It's not the name of something that matters, it's what it is and what it represents.
The Significance of Roses
Roses have been important symbols in literature and culture for centuries. They are often associated with love, passion, and beauty. In Romeo and Juliet, the rose represents Juliet's love for Romeo despite their families' feud.
Today, roses are still popular gifts between romantic partners, and the color of the rose can convey different meanings. Red roses are a symbol of love and passion, while yellow roses represent friendship and joy.
Other Famous Shakespeare Quotes
William Shakespeare is known for his many famous lines and quotes. Some other notable quotes from his plays include:
- "To be, or not to be: that is the question." - from Hamlet
- "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." - from As You Like It
- "The course of true love never did run smooth." - from A Midsummer Night's Dream
The Legacy of Shakespeare
William Shakespeare's plays are still performed and studied today, over 400 years after his death. His works have had a profound impact on literature and language, and his influence can be seen in everything from movies to music.
Shakespeare's ability to capture the human experience in his writing is what makes his plays so timeless. His characters are complex and relatable, and his stories explore universal themes like love, jealousy, and revenge.
Conclusion
"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." This famous quote from Romeo and Juliet reminds us that it's not the name of something that matters, but what it is and what it represents. William Shakespeare's legacy lives on through his plays and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience.
