perjured – Introduces betrayal and broken oaths, we may expect deception or treachery in the plot. boiling lead – Violent, graphic imagery. Suggests the play will not shy away from brutality.

Implies unimaginable horror. Raises suspense, what horrors are coming? Suggests emotional and psychological intensity.

Introduces romance. A tragic love story is expected. Love appears central to the character’s identity.

Suggests we are entering the underworld, not the earthly world. A dark, serious, possibly fatalistic tone is signalled.

Graphic but poetic description of dying. Emphasises violence and physical suffering. Suggests that death was dramatic and possibly unjust.

“Secret” signals a hidden love. Hidden relationships often create a sense of something eventually being exposed or jealousy. These aspects could signal conflict or a scandal.

Raises spiritual or religious expectations, something to do with the afterlife.