Which line from Romeo and Juliet best illustrates Douglas Bruster's claim that as our language has changed over time, Shakespeare's language has lost some of its relevance for modern audiences?

A.
Who, even in pure and vestal modesty,
B.
But Romeo may not; he is banished.
C.
And sayst thou yet that exile is not death?
D.
Being a divine, a ghostly confessor,

1 answer

The line that best illustrates Douglas Bruster's claim about the loss of relevance of Shakespeare's language for modern audiences is:

C. And sayst thou yet that exile is not death?

This line exemplifies the archaic language and structure that can make it difficult for contemporary audiences to fully grasp the emotional weight and meaning without additional context or interpretation. The use of "sayst thou" is not part of modern English vernacular, highlighting the gap in communication and understanding that arises from linguistic evolution over time.