The Struggle Between Romeo And Juliet

William Shakespeare's story follows the tragic tale of its eponymous characters and the impact their desperate, passionate love has on their families and acquaintances. Romeo and Juliet hail from their respective households, the Montagues and the Capulets, in Verona where the play is set. The odds are evidently against them due to the infamous, unrelenting feud between their households. It is a constant source of commotion in Verona, unable to end without official intervention by Prince Escalus. Heavily burdened by the bitter line of separation, they are forced to overcome a series of obstacles in order to be with one another. These obstacles range from Juliet’s arranged marriage to Romeo’s banishment from Verona. The story culminates in the
The story proves that while love can be an incentive for positive change, it can also be a dangerous catalyst capable of repercussions as severe as death. The characters of Romeo, Juliet, and Tybalt particularly set off this catalyst through irrational actions stemming from their impulsive temperaments. Romeo’s passion and sensitivity complement his love for Juliet well; however, they also frequently cloud his judgment. At the beginning of the story, he is enamored with Rosaline to the point of depression upon learning that the love is unrequited. In spite of his poor state, he is quick to move on as soon as he meets Juliet. They exchange heartfelt endearments later that night, deciding to get married before parting. After only a day since sulking over “love’s transgressions” (1.1.179), Romeo now finds himself asking Friar Lawrence to officiate his marriage. The friar is accustomed to Romeo's idealistic love, and he expresses concern when he hears that Romeo is not in love with Rosaline anymore but with Juliet: “Young men’s love then lies / Not truly in their hearts, but in their eyes” (2.3.66-68). Friar Lawrence, the voice of reason in the scenario, points out Romeo’s previous attraction