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Essay / The Theme of Suicide in Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare's tragic play Romeo and Juliet is filled with themes of love, fate, and death. One of the most striking themes of the play is the act of suicide, committed by Romeo and Juliet. This essay will explore the reasons for their tragic decision and the implications it has on the overall narrative. By examining the characters' motivations, societal pressures, and the consequences of their actions, it becomes clear that Romeo and Juliet's choice to end their lives is driven by a combination of external and internal factors. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay From the beginning of the play, it is obvious that Romeo and Juliet are star-crossed lovers destined for a tragic end. Their love is forbidden due to the ongoing feud between their families, the Montagues and the Capulets. This paves the way for their ultimate demise, as they constantly face societal pressures and expectations. However, it is important to delve deeper into the reasons why Romeo and Juliet choose to commit suicide, rather than finding alternative solutions to their predicament. A key word that appears several times in the text is “why”. Why do Romeo and Juliet commit suicide? One possible answer lies in their impulsive nature and inability to see beyond the present moment. Romeo, in particular, is known for his rash decisions and quick actions. When he believes that Juliette is dead, he immediately decides to commit suicide, without considering other options. This impulsive behavior can be seen as a reflection of Romeo's intense emotions and his inability to think rationally in the face of tragedy. Additionally, societal pressures play a significant role in Romeo and Juliet's decision to end their lives. They are constantly surrounded by a society that values honor, loyalty, and family reputation over personal happiness. The pressure to conform to these societal expectations forces Romeo and Juliet to hide their love and engage in a secret relationship. This secrecy and fear of being discovered contribute to their feelings of hopelessness and despair. In their eyes, suicide becomes the only way to escape the constraints of their society and to be together in death. Furthermore, the consequences of Romeo and Juliet's actions cannot be ignored. Their suicides have a profound impact on the families and on the city of Verona. Instead of ending the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets, their deaths only intensify the conflict. The tragic loss of two young lives forces the families to face the consequences of their long-standing hatred. This suggests that Romeo and Juliet's suicides were not only the result of their own personal struggles, but also a catalyst for change within their society. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Paper EssayIn conclusion, the theme of suicide in Romeo and Juliet is complex and multifaceted. The characters' motivations, societal pressures, and the consequences of their actions all contribute to their tragic decision. Romeo and Juliet's impulsive nature, combined with the societal expectations placed on them, ultimately drives them to commit suicide. However, their deaths also serve as a turning point in the play, forcing the families to face the consequences of their actions. By examining the reasons for Romeo and Juliet's suicides, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes of love, fate and tragedy that Shakespeare explores in this play..