Various Attitudes Toward Love in Romeo and Juliet

What is Romeo's attitude toward love? This question is central to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, as it explores the different perspectives characters have 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.

Love as Idealistic

Romeo initially embodies an idealistic attitude toward love, viewing it as a transformative force that can transcend social boundaries. In Act 1, Scene 1, Romeo is infatuated with Rosaline and describes his love for her in exaggerated and poetic terms. He states, "Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs" (1.1.197). This metaphor highlights Romeo's belief that love is ethereal and mysterious.

Furthermore, Romeo's idealistic view of love is evident when he meets Juliet. After seeing her for the first time at the Capulet's ball, Romeo exclaims, "Did my heart love till now? Forswear it, sight! / For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night" (1.5.52-53). Romeo's instant infatuation with Juliet demonstrates his willingness to abandon his previous 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 Juliet, despite knowing that their families are sworn enemies. This impulsive decision ultimately contributes to the tragic outcome of the play.

Love as Impulsive

In 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, stating, "If love be rough with you, be rough with love" (1.4.27). Mercutio's perspective suggests that love should not be taken too seriously and that it is simply a physical desire.

This impulsive attitude toward love is further exemplified in Romeo and Juliet's secret marriage. Despite the short duration of their acquaintance, they commit themselves to each other without considering the long-term consequences. Their impulsive decision to marry ultimately leads to their tragic deaths.

Love as Tragic

While Romeo and Juliet's love is portrayed 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 initial meeting, which takes place at a party where they are destined to be enemies.

Moreover, the theme of fate further emphasizes the tragic nature of their love. From the very 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 sense of inevitability, leading to the tragic conclusion of the play.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Romeo and Juliet presents a range of attitudes toward love, including idealistic, impulsive, and tragic views. Romeo's idealistic love for both Rosaline and Juliet showcases the transformative power of love, while his impulsive actions highlight the consequences of this attitude. Mercutio's light-hearted and impulsive view of love provides a contrasting perspective. Ultimately, the play explores the tragic consequences of love, emphasizing that it can be both beautiful and destructive. Romeo and Juliet's story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the complexities and consequences of love.