How does Shakespeare use imagery in describing Juliet's death?

Answer 1

Shakespeare does not describe Juliet's death. He was not writing novels.

The stage direction which follows Juliet's line "O happy dagger. This is thy sheath, there rust and let me die." in the Folio version of the play is:

"KILS HERSELFE" (sic)

In the first Quarto of 1597 it says

"SHE STABS HERSELFE AND FALLES"

And the second Quarto of 1599 has no stage direction at all.

Obviously Shakespeare uses no imagery whatsoever to describe Juliet's death. And why should he? The audience can see it happen. A picture's worth a thousand words.

Answer 2

Shakespeare uses vivid imagery to describe Juliet's death in a tragic and detailed manner. He often employs dark and ominous imagery, comparing Juliet's life to a candle that is extinguished or a flower that withers. By using such imagery, Shakespeare conveys the emotional weight and finality of Juliet's death.

Answer 3

Her joints are stiff. She is cold and hard.