Who Should Be Pardoned in Romeo and Juliet?

Love, passion, and tragedy intertwine in one of Shakespeare's most famous plays, Romeo and Juliet. The story of two young star-crossed lovers has captured the hearts of audiences for centuries. However, amidst the chaos and heartbreak, it is crucial to consider who should be pardoned for their actions. This essay will delve into the characters' motivations and circumstances to determine who deserves forgiveness in this tragic tale. Ultimately, it will be argued that Romeo should be pardoned due to the circumstances surrounding his actions.

Romeo's rash actions were driven by his intense passion for Juliet. From the moment he lays eyes on her, Romeo is consumed by love, leading him to make impulsive decisions. When he kills Tybalt in a fit of rage, Romeo is driven by his loyalty to his friend Mercutio and his desire to avenge his death. These actions, although violent, can be seen as a result of his overwhelming emotions and should be pardoned due to the extenuating circumstances.

Friar Laurence, as a trusted figure in Romeo's life, also bears responsibility for the tragic events that unfold. It was Friar Laurence who secretly married Romeo and Juliet, hoping to unite their feuding families. While his intentions were noble, his plan ultimately led to their untimely deaths. However, it is important to acknowledge that the Friar acted out of a genuine desire to bring peace and end the ongoing conflict between the Capulets and Montagues. His actions were misguided but driven by a desire for reconciliation, which should be taken into account when considering his culpability.

On the other hand, Juliet's actions cannot be ignored. While she is young and naive, Juliet demonstrates a maturity beyond her years. She willingly defies her family's wishes and risks everything for her love with Romeo. However, her decision to fake her own death and deceive her family ultimately leads to tragedy. While her motives were driven by love, Juliet's actions inadvertently contribute to the demise of both herself and Romeo. Although her intentions were pure, she must be held accountable for the consequences of her choices.

It is also essential to consider the role of external factors in the tragic events of Romeo and Juliet. The ongoing feud between the Capulets and Montagues sets the stage for the conflict that arises throughout the play. The longstanding hatred between the two families fuels the secrecy and impulsive actions of Romeo and Juliet. Their love becomes a forbidden fruit, leading them to take desperate measures to be together. The societal pressure and familial expectations placed upon them contribute to their tragic end. Therefore, the larger context in which their actions occur should be taken into consideration when determining who should be pardoned.

In conclusion, while all the characters in Romeo and Juliet play a part in the tragic outcome, Romeo should be pardoned for his actions. His intense passion and love for Juliet, coupled with the extenuating circumstances surrounding his choices, justify his actions to a certain extent. However, it is crucial to remember that forgiveness does not absolve individuals of all responsibility. Friar Laurence, Juliet, and the external factors that influenced their decisions must also be acknowledged. Romeo's pardon serves as a reminder of the complexities of love, passion, and tragedy, and the importance of understanding the circumstances that drive our actions.

Bibliography:

Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Edited by Jill L. Levenson, Oxford University Press, 2000.