Examine the different views of love presented in the play Romeo and Juliet.

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Romeo and Juliet Critical Essay

By Catriona Wynne

Task: Examine the different views of love presented in the play Romeo and Juliet.

This essay will explore and inspect the theme of love in the William Shakespeare play Romeo and Juliet. Throughout the play there are many different types of love conveyed through the characters, as the two main characters, Romeo and Juliet, forsake their families in the name of love which, in being so strong, ends in them going to the extremity of taking their own lives.

One of the variations of love is the theme of family love which is shown to the audience throughout the play. In the first scene of the play the Montague parents first express their caring for their son Romeo, quote Lady Montague,

‘O where is Romeo? saw you him today?

Right glad I am he was not at this fray.’

Also in Scene one when Benvolio asks Montague if he’s questioned Romeo, quote Montague,

‘Both myself and many other friends

But he, his own affections counsellor,’

This is showing Montague’s concern about Romeos infatuation with Rosaline and about Romeos well-being. As the play goes on, the Montague family fade out and by the end of the play, their true love for their son Romeo is shown, as Lady Montague has died through the shock of finding out her son has died, quote Montague,

‘Alas, my liege, my wife is dead tonight;

Join now!

Grief of my son’s exile hath stopp’d her breath.’

The audience are first shown the interactions and behaviour of Juliet’s family towards her in Scene three Act 1 where Juliet seems to be quite open to her mothers suggestions and obedient towards her mothers wishes, showing that she is quite happy and content with her family, quote Lady Capulet,

‘Speak briefly, can you like of Paris’ love?’

Quote Juliet,

‘I’ll look to like, if looking liking move;

But no more deep will I endart mine eye

Than your consent gives strength to make it fly.’

Then, as Juliet’s love for ...

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