Romeo and Juliet 1.4 Wordplay: "soar/sore", bound", pitch"

The transcript discusses Mercutio's different attitude towards Romeo's heartbreak, suggesting he should borrow Cupid's wings to rise above his troubles. The term 'bound' is explored in two senses: as a constraint and as a leap. Romeo uses a pun on 'sore' to express his inability to rise above his heartache. Shakespeare's metaphor of 'pitch' is explained, relating to a hawk's flight and its connection to baseball terminology. Ultimately, Romeo is unable to 'bound a pitch' due to his emotional burden.

What does Mercutio suggest Romeo should do to overcome his heartbreak?

• Talk to Juliet about his feelings

• Borrow Cupid's wings to soar above his troubles

• Seek advice from a wise elder

• Write a poem about his sorrow

In what two senses is the word 'bound' used in the context of Mercutio's advice?

• As a journey and a destination

• As a bond and a freedom

• As a promise and a restriction

• As a constraint and a leap

How does Romeo describe his inability to rise above his sorrow?

• He is too sore from Cupid's arrow to soar

• He is too tired to dance

• He is too confused to think clearly

• He is too angry to forgive

What is the meaning of the expression 'bound a pitch' as used by Shakespeare?

• To throw a ball in baseball

• To jump or leap in an arc like a hawk

• To sing a high note

• To climb a steep hill

What does the metaphor of a hawk's flight illustrate about Romeo's emotional state?

• His desire to hunt for new love

• His ambition to become a great warrior

• His struggle to overcome his emotional burden

• His wish to escape from Verona