If love be blind, it best agrees with night

If love be blind, it best agrees with night

The line "If love be blind, it best agrees with night" is from Act 2, Scene 6 of William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice." In this scene, Lorenzo and Jessica are discussing their love for each other and the secrecy of their relationship. The line is spoken by Lorenzo as he reflects on the nature of love and how it can thrive in darkness.

The idea that love is blind is a common theme in Shakespeare's works, as he often explores the complexities and contradictions of love. In this particular line, Lorenzo is suggesting that love is best experienced in the darkness of night, where it can be free from the judgment and scrutiny of others. In the cover of darkness, love can flourish without the constraints of societal norms or expectations.

The metaphor of love being blind is a powerful one, suggesting that love is not bound by physical appearances or superficial qualities. Instead, true love sees beyond the surface and connects on a deeper, more profound level. In the darkness of night, when our senses are heightened and our inhibitions are lowered, love can be felt more intensely and authentically.

Furthermore, the idea that love best agrees with night also speaks to the clandestine nature of Lorenzo and Jessica's relationship. Their love is forbidden by Jessica's father, Shylock, who disapproves of their union. In order to be together, they must meet in secret under the cover of night, where they can express their love freely and without fear of reprisal.

Overall, the line "If love be blind, it best agrees with night" encapsulates the themes of love, secrecy, and defiance in "The Merchant of Venice." It highlights the power of love to transcend societal boundaries and flourish in the darkness, where it can be truly authentic and uninhibited. Shakespeare's exploration of love in this play continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring power and complexity of this universal emotion.