Romeo and Juliet

Carefully explain the concept of love in "Romeo and Juliet." What insights and truths does Shakespeare offer us?

In "Romeo and Juliet" there are some obvious truths concerning love offered by Shakespeare. First of all, through the main characters, Romeo and Juliet, youthful passion is explored. Both are unwilling to live without the other; however, on a deeper level, Shakespeare uses the lovers to explore love within families. Both characters defy their parents and their feuding families to be together. Their death is possibly the only way the feuding of the Capulets and Montagues would cease. Perhaps, most importantly, youthful love, that of Romeo and Juliet, is passionate and reckless. I doubt if two people in their thirties or forties would wed within a day or two of meeting and then kill themselves if they thought they could not be together!

Shakespeare introduces the concept of "love at first sight".  Ask anyone today if he/she believes in this, and you will get a surprising number of Yes's and No's...almost equal, I would venture to guess!

Shakespeare's portrayal of Romeo and Juliet emphasizes the power of love.  It can cause people to do unorthodox and irrational things, as in the play.  Also, the portrayal shows us how love is not a fairy tale.  Love encounters many obstacles and ups and downs, often external to the actual relationship.  In the case of Romeo and Juliet, the problems were massive because of the animosity between the two families, who were adamant they not be together.

Shakespeare explores different kinds of love throughout "Romeo and Juliet," not just with the main characters. For instance, both the Nurse and Mercutio portray elements of the more vulgar side of "love" through their sexual remarks. Juliet's parents illustrate a required love, since it is clear that their marriage was arranged and they have done what is expected of them. Additionally, the Friar depicts a love for the supernatural and Benvolio is a great example of love for friends, since he hurts when Romeo hurts.