The act of interpreting Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” specifically the second scene of the second act, from its original Early Modern English into contemporary language, is a common practice. This process makes the play’s language accessible to a wider audience, including students, modern readers, and those unfamiliar with Shakespearean English. For example, translating Juliet’s famous line, “O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?” could involve rephrasing it as “O Romeo, Romeo! Why are you Romeo?” to clarify that Juliet is lamenting Romeo’s family name, not his physical location.
The value of such interpretation lies in its ability to unlock the play’s themes, characters, and plot for those who might otherwise struggle with the archaic language. It facilitates a deeper understanding of Shakespeare’s artistry and the enduring relevance of his stories. Historically, translations and adaptations have played a crucial role in popularizing Shakespeare’s works across different cultures and time periods, ensuring their continued performance and study.