Though this phrase has become a regular reference, it was originally spoken by the character
Juliet to
Romeo in the classic
Shakespeare tragedie
Romeo and Juliet.
In the story, the two lovers are forced to have a relationship in secret because of an ongoing feud separating the
Montegues and Capulets, their two families, in a war of hatred and scorn. Juliet is commenting on how ridiculous it is that their mere names should keep them apart despite the
true love they've found in one another.
She makes the heartfelt promise that she would gladly denounce her
family lineage and deny her
surname would it allow them to stay together. 'What's in a name?' She says, followed by this eloquent
analogy.