The relationship between Romeo and Juliet is a central theme in Shakespeare's play of the
same name. The young lovers are from two rival families, the Montagues and the Capulets, and
their intense love for each other forms the backbone of the play. Despite the feud between
their families, Romeo and Juliet are drawn together and their love becomes the driving force of
the play. In this essay, I will explore the relationship between Romeo and Juliet and how it
develops throughout the play.
At the beginning of the play, Romeo is depicted as a lovesick young man who is infatuated with
Rosaline. However, when he meets Juliet, his feelings are transformed and he is immediately
smitten with her. In Act I, Scene 5, Romeo speaks of his newfound love for Juliet, saying, "O, she
doth teach the torches to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night, as a rich
jewel in an Ethiope's ear" (I.5.43-46). This sudden change in Romeo's demeanor is indicative of
the intense and passionate love that he feels for Juliet.
As Romeo and Juliet's relationship develops, they become increasingly devoted to each other.
Despite the danger of their relationship, they are willing to take risks in order to be together.
This is exemplified in Act II, Scene 2, when Juliet says, "My only love sprung from my only hate!
Too early seen unknown, and known too late! Prodigious birth of love it is to me, that I must
love a loathed enemy" (II.2.138-142). This quote demonstrates the depth of Juliet's feelings for
Romeo and her willingness to ignore the animosity between their families.
Throughout the play, Romeo and Juliet's love becomes the source of conflict and tension. Their
love is threatened by the feud between their families, as well as by external forces such as the
interference of Friar Laurence and the actions of Tybalt. Despite these challenges, Romeo and
Juliet remain steadfast in their love for each other, and their commitment to each other
becomes the central motif of the play.
In Act III, Scene 2, Romeo kills Tybalt in a fit of rage, leading to his banishment from Verona.
This event marks the climax of the play and highlights the intensity of Romeo and Juliet's love
for each other. Despite their separation, Romeo and Juliet remain devoted to each other and
their love becomes stronger as a result. In Act III, Scene 5, Juliet speaks of her longing for
Romeo, saying, "O God, I have an ill-divining soul! Methinks I see thee, now thou art so low, as
one dead in the bottom of a tomb" (III.5.21-23). This quote demonstrates the depth of Juliet's
feelings for Romeo and her longing for him, even when they are apart.
The relationship between Romeo and Juliet ultimately leads to their tragic end. Despite their
love for each other, they are unable to overcome the obstacles in their path, and their love
ends in tragedy. In Act V, Scene 3, Romeo speaks of his final thoughts before his death, saying,
"Thus with a kiss I die" (V.3.119). This quote is a testament to the power of Romeo and Juliet's
love, and serves as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice they made for each other.
In conclusion, the relationship between Romeo and Juliet is a central theme in Shakespeare's
play. The young lovers are drawn together despite the animosity between their families, and
their intense and passionate love becomes the driving force of the play. Despite the challenges
