Arise Quote by William Shakespeare
“But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun. Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon, Who is already sick and pale with grief, That thou, her maid, art far more fair than she. Be not her maid, since she is envious; Her vestal livery is but sick and green And none but fools do wear it; cast it off. It is my lady, O, it is my love! Oh, that she knew she were!”
About This Quote
Source Play: Romeo and Juliet, Act 2 Scene 2, 1597
Juliet’s speech celebrates love’s brilliance, comparing her beloved to the sun that outshines the jealous moon.
In simple terms: Love is brighter than envy.
Value love’s radiant power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- courtship
- expressing affection
- overcoming rivalry
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the sun symbolize for you?
- How does envy affect love?
The hyperbolic language may feel outdated to modern readers.