Recall the lovers' exchange in 1.5, in which Romeo declares himself a pilgrim come to worship at the shrine of Saint Juliet:
Romeo.
If I profane with my unworthiest hand
This holy shrine, the gentle fine is this:
My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand
To smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss.
Juliet.
Good pilgrim, you do wrong your hand too much,
Which mannerly devotion shows in this;
For saints have hands that pilgrims' hands do touch,
And palm to palm is holy palmers' kiss. Romeo.
Have not saints lips, and holy palmers too? (1.5.92-100)
How to cite this article:
Mabillard, Amanda. Romeo and Juliet Balcony Scene Glossary. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2000. (date when you accessed the information) < http://www.shakespeare-online.com/plays/dearsaint.html >.
