Here's a breakdown:
* Thee: This is the object form of "thou." It's used when the person addressed is the object of a verb or preposition.
* Example: "I see thee." (You are the object of the verb "see.")
* Thou: This is the subject form of the pronoun. It's used when the person addressed is the subject of a verb.
* Example: "Thou art beautiful." (You are the subject of the verb "art.")
Historically, the use of "thee" and "thou" depended on:
* Familiarity: "Thou" was used to address someone you were close to (family, friends), while "you" was used for strangers or those of a higher social status.
* Social context: In formal settings like religious services or poetry, "thee" and "thou" were often used.
* Regional dialect: Certain dialects of English still retain the use of "thee" and "thou" to some extent.
In contemporary English, "you" is used for both the subject and object forms, regardless of the formality of the situation. The use of "thee" and "thou" is now largely restricted to:
* Literature: Shakespearean plays, religious texts, and historical novels often use "thee" and "thou" to create a specific tone or to reflect the language of the time period.
* Poetry: Poets may use "thee" and "thou" for stylistic reasons, to create a sense of intimacy or formality.
* Humor: Some people might use "thee" and "thou" humorously to sound old-fashioned or to mimic a historical character.
So, while "thee" and "thou" might seem confusing at first, understanding their historical context and current usage can help you appreciate their role in English language.