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All Site ContentRomeo and JulietAct 1Scene 2
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"earth-treading stars"
Metaphor
Act 1,
Scene 2
Lines 24-30

A metaphor comparing dazzling young women at a party to "earth-treading stars" in myShakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Act 1, Scene 2.

Capulet

At my poor house look to behold this night
Earth-treading stars that make dark heaven light.
Such comfort as do lusty young men feel
When well-apparelled April on the heel
Of limping Winter treads — even such delight
Among fresh fennel buds shall you this night
Inherit at my house. Hear all, all see                           

The dazzling young women at the party will be like “earth-treading stars,” which have descended from the dark heaven to light up Lord Capulet’s “poor” home. Of course his Verona mansion could hardly be described as poor.