Absence from those we love is self from self - a deadly banishment

Absence from those we love is self from self - a deadly banishment

In William Shakespeare's works, the theme of absence from loved ones is a recurring motif that highlights the profound impact that separation can have on individuals. One of the most famous quotes on this subject comes from the play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," where Shakespeare writes, "Absence from those we love is self from self - a deadly banishment." This line encapsulates the idea that being separated from those we care about can feel like a form of exile, causing a deep sense of loss and loneliness.

Throughout Shakespeare's plays, characters are often torn apart from their loved ones due to various circumstances, such as war, betrayal, or misunderstandings. These separations can lead to feelings of isolation and despair, as individuals struggle to cope with the absence of their loved ones. In "Romeo and Juliet," for example, the titular characters are tragically separated by their feuding families, leading to a series of events that ultimately result in their untimely deaths. The play poignantly illustrates how the absence of love can have devastating consequences, highlighting the destructive power of separation.