Antithesis

In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare frequently makes use of antithesis which means opposites or contrasts. By using these contrasts, the individual element stands out. 

An overall example of antithesis in the play is the lovers’ relationship itself. For instance, their wedding night is the culmination of their happiness but at the same time also their last moment together. Thus, extreme happiness is juxtaposed with extreme sadness - particularly because the audience knows that this will end in tragedy.

An example of antithesis in specific lines of the play is when Juliet’s father finds his daughter lifeless on the day she was to marry Paris. All the happy wedding preparations now change into their sad opposite:

Our instruments to melancholy bells,
Our...