Tuesday, March 20, 2007

What light in yonder window breaks?



Here are some pictures I took on a trip to Verona Italy that I thought I would share. Verona was the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. On the tour we went to where the locals claim part of the story took place.




Above is the balcony from which "yonder light broke" as Romeo called up to the fair Juliet according to the locals.


Above is a statue of Juliet in the courtyard where Romeo stood as he called up to Juliet. Local custom has it that if you rub the right breast of Juliet you will have good luck. I chose not to participate in the tradition but as you can see from the photo many a visitor has, as indicated by the high polish of Juliet's breast.
Although Romeo and Juliet was fictional. It is embraced by the good citizens of Verona as perhaps a true story. If you get the chance to go to Verona I recommend a visit to this courtyard. There are really good museums and there is history everywhere, including a really well preserved Roman coliseum.

2 comments:

Carol said...

Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo. I was in Verona with my son several years ago on a road trip to Venice. You are right Max, this little courtyard is impressive, although the graffiti was disturbing.
Romeo and Juliet were perhaps the stuff of fiction, but their emotional story has inspired millions.
The arena at Verona is still used for operas, most notably that of Aida, complete with REAL elephants and horses.

Thanks for the lovely story!
Carol

Dr. Wayne E. Wright said...

Cool! Seeing these photos really helps bring the story to light. Great photos Max!