Do not swear at all. Or if thou wilt, swear by thy gracious self, which is the God of my idolatry

Do not swear at all. Or if thou wilt, swear by thy gracious self, which is the God of my idolatry

In William Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the character Juliet speaks these words to Romeo in Act 2, Scene 2. This line is a part of the famous balcony scene where Romeo and Juliet profess their love for each other. Juliet is cautioning Romeo against swearing oaths, as she believes that words can be easily broken and promises can be unkept. Instead, she suggests that if he must swear, he should swear by himself, as he is the most important person in her life.

The phrase "Do not swear at all" reflects Juliet's belief in the power of words and the importance of keeping one's promises. She understands that swearing oaths can be dangerous, as they can lead to broken trust and hurt feelings. By advising Romeo not to swear at all, Juliet is urging him to be cautious with his words and to think carefully before making any promises.

The second part of the line, "Or if thou wilt, swear by thy gracious self, which is the God of my idolatry," is a declaration of Juliet's love and devotion to Romeo. By referring to him as the "God of my idolatry," Juliet is expressing her deep admiration and reverence for him. She sees Romeo as the most important person in her life, someone worthy of worship and devotion.

This line is significant in the context of the play as it highlights the intense and passionate love between Romeo and Juliet. It also serves as a reminder of the power of words and the importance of keeping one's promises. Juliet's words reflect her wisdom and maturity, as she understands the complexities of love and the dangers of making rash decisions.

Overall, this line from "Romeo and Juliet" is a powerful reminder of the importance of honesty, trust, and devotion in relationships. It serves as a caution against making empty promises and a declaration of undying love and devotion. Shakespeare's words continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the timeless themes of love, loyalty, and the power of words.