Dante Alighieri, an illustrious 13th-century Italian poet, once said, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions” (72). Indeed, numerous examples throughout history, society and literature serve to characterize this axiom. Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare is the quintessential example of this adage. The play demonstrates that good intentions can lead to negative consequences. Romeo's creations, however honorable, lead to the demise of him and other characters. Additionally, the Nurse's desire for Juliet's happiness unintentionally alienates Juliette. Finally, Friar Lawrence's union of Romeo and Juliet and Capulet's arranged marriage of Juliet and Paris illustrate that worthy goals can lead to heartbreak. The theme that the best plans can go wrong is evident in many societies throughout the ages. In Romeo and Juliet, the actions of the nurse illustrate this aphorism. She is aware of the draconian sanctions that would apply to the lovers if their forbidden love were discovered. Because she loves Juliet and wants her to be happy, the nurse decides to keep the relationship between Romeo and Juliet a secret. By not informing Juliet's parents, the nurse shows more loyalty to Juliet than to Lord and Lady Capulet. The Nurse’s help advances the lovers’ relationship from infatuation to marriage: “I am the grudge and I work for your pleasure; » (II. v. 75). Romeo and Juliet's feelings for each other grow until they become inseparable. Following Romeo's banishment and the announcement of Juliet and Paris's arranged marriage, Juliet seeks advice from the nurse as to her next course of action. Aware of the intensity of Juliet's feelings for Romeo, the nurse attempts to nullify Juliet's sadness by trying to divert her... middle of paper ... Kirsten Beyer, the author of the Star Trek series, has writes: "'I believe we must align our actions with our highest principles. Whatever the outcome, we will not have failed if we act with our best intentions.' “The road to hell is paved with good intentions, Captain,” Chakotay said with equal certainty. “So is the road to peace,” Cambridge observed” (goodreads.com). noble intentions sometimes result in dastardly consequences, the pursuit of good and righteousness must persist unfailingly. Works Cited Clements, Tom How to Write an SAT Killer Essay in 25 Minutes or Less!. Faustino, Mara. Heaven and Hell: A Compulsively Read Compendium of Myths, Legends, Wisdom, and Wit for Saints and Sinners New York: Grove/Atlantic Inc., 2004. Print “Quotes on Good Intentions.” "Goodreads Inc, 2014. The web May 7. 2009.