Romeo and Juliet
Romeo and Juliet: A Poor Demonstration of Love
“These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die like fire and powder which as they kiss consumes” (2.6.10-11). Out of love, the star-crossed lovers can’t bear the burden of living without each other, choose to die together in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. However, has Juliet made the right decision, or has she really thought about love and marriage? Romeo is gentle and passionate, whereas Paris is honourable and practical. The fact that Juliet is so madly in love with Romeo, she never gives Paris a chance. Paris is an established figure and has the approval of Juliet’s family. On the contrary, Romeo is immature; he does what he wants. Furthermore, the different personalities have resulted in the deviation of their perceptions of love; Romeo’s love is like fire as it starts fast and burns out quick. Paris’ love is more practical as his love for Juliet is constant. Love and passion alone, can never sustain a life-long relationship. Here, Paris is the more ideal match for Juliet, as he is more responsible and understanding. A healthy relationship always starts out with parent’s consent: “Read o’er the volume of young Paris’ face […] To beautify him, only lacks a cover.” (1.3.80-90) Lady Capulet holds high regards for Paris, and sees Juliet as the younger version of her. As a mother, she always thinks about her child and will choose the best for Juliet. “But woo her, gentle Paris, get her heart.” (1.2.16) It is the same for the old Capulet; he looks out for his child’s interest meanwhile encouraging Paris to impress Juliet. He knows that a marriage with Paris is a win-win situation; not only will the family benefit from increased social status and expanded business, but Paris can also give Juliet a happier life. At the same time, Romeo is regarded by the Capulets vilely; Tybalt constantly calls him a “villain”, and Lady Capulet despises Romeo to the extreme after Tybalt is slain.
“These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die like fire and powder which as they kiss consumes” (2.6.10-11). Out of love, the star-crossed lovers can’t bear the burden of living without each other, choose to die together in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. However, has Juliet made the right decision, or has she really thought about love and marriage? Romeo is gentle and passionate, whereas Paris is honourable and practical. The fact that Juliet is so madly in love with Romeo, she never gives Paris a chance. Paris is an established figure and has the approval of Juliet’s family. On the contrary, Romeo is immature; he does what he wants. Furthermore, the different personalities have resulted in the deviation of their perceptions of love; Romeo’s love is like fire as it starts fast and burns out quick. Paris’ love is more practical as his love for Juliet is constant. Love and passion alone, can never sustain a life-long relationship. Here, Paris is the more ideal match for Juliet, as he is more responsible and understanding. A healthy relationship always starts out with parent’s consent: “Read o’er the volume of young Paris’ face […] To beautify him, only lacks a cover.” (1.3.80-90) Lady Capulet holds high regards for Paris, and sees Juliet as the younger version of her. As a mother, she always thinks about her child and will choose the best for Juliet. “But woo her, gentle Paris, get her heart.” (1.2.16) It is the same for the old Capulet; he looks out for his child’s interest meanwhile encouraging Paris to impress Juliet. He knows that a marriage with Paris is a win-win situation; not only will the family benefit from increased social status and expanded business, but Paris can also give Juliet a happier life. At the same time, Romeo is regarded by the Capulets vilely; Tybalt constantly calls him a “villain”, and Lady Capulet despises Romeo to the extreme after Tybalt is slain.