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Essay / Various attitudes towards love in Romeo and Juliet
Table of contentsLove as idealisticLove as impulsiveLove as tragicConclusionWhat is Romeo's attitude towards love? This question is at the heart of the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, as it explores the characters' different perspectives on love. Throughout the play, Shakespeare presents a range of attitudes toward love, including idealistic, impulsive, and tragic views. This essay will analyze these attitudes and their implications, shedding light on the complexities of love in Romeo and Juliet. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayLove as IdealistRomeo initially embodies an idealistic attitude toward love, viewing it as a transformative force that can transcend boundaries social. In Act 1, Scene 1, Romeo is infatuated with Rosaline and describes his love for her in exaggerated and poetic terms. He declares: “Love is smoke made of the smoke of sighs” (1.1.197). This metaphor highlights Romeo's belief that love is ethereal and mysterious. Additionally, Romeo's idealistic view of love is evident when he meets Juliet. After seeing her for the first time at the Capulet ball, Romeo exclaims: "Has my heart loved until now?" Give it up, view! / For I saw true beauty only this night” (1.5.52-53). Romeo's instant infatuation with Juliet demonstrates his willingness to abandon his former love for Rosaline and embrace a new ideal of love. However, Romeo's idealistic view of love also leads to impulsive actions, highlighting the darker consequences of this attitude. He quickly agrees to marry Juliette, knowing that their families are sworn enemies. This impulsive decision ultimately contributes to the tragic outcome of the play.Love as ImpulsiveIn addition to Romeo's impulsive behavior, the character of Mercutio also embodies an attitude toward love that is impulsive and light-hearted. Mercutio mocks Romeo's idealistic view of love and asserts his own philosophy, declaring: "If love is hard on you, be hard on love" (1.4.27). Mercutio's view suggests that love should not be taken too seriously and is simply a physical desire. This impulsive attitude towards love is further illustrated in the secret marriage of Romeo and Juliet. Despite the short duration of their relationship, they commit to each other without considering the long-term consequences. Their impulsive decision to get married ultimately leads to their tragic death. Tragic Love Although Romeo and Juliet's love is described as passionate and intense, it ultimately becomes a source of tragedy. The play suggests that love can be both beautiful and destructive. The tragic nature of their love is foreshadowed through their first meeting, which takes place at a party where they are destined to be enemies. Additionally, the theme of fate further emphasizes the tragic nature of their love. From the beginning, the audience is aware that Romeo and Juliet are star-crossed lovers, doomed by the circumstances of their birth. Their love is therefore marked by a feeling of inevitability, leading to the tragic conclusion of the play. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion In conclusion, Romeo and Juliet exhibit a range of attitudes toward love, including idealistic, impulsive, and tragic views. Romeo's idealistic love for Rosaline and Juliet highlights the transformative power of love, while his impulsive actions highlight the consequences of this attitude. The vision..