Why Do All People Love the Story of Romeo and Juliet?

Romeo and Juliet, often cited as one of William Shakespeare's masterpieces, has captivated the hearts of many for centuries. However, when Shakespeare wrote these plays, they were not widely appreciated in his time. It was not until the middle of the 1700s, during the Enlightenment and Romanticism movements, that society began to change and embrace the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. This article will explore the reasons why the story of Romeo and Juliet continues to resonate with people and how it has evolved over time.

The Evolution of Romeo and Juliet

During the Renaissance, society was taking a more rational and scientific approach, but a reaction to this rationality led to a heightened appreciation for emotions and the Romanticism movement. One of the core ideas of Romanticism was the belief that emotions should triumph over everything. What better example of this than a story where two young lovers die out of respect for their emotions? The tales of Romeo and Juliet coincidentally fit this idea, making it a smashing success during this period and continuing to be adored to this day.

The original meaning of Romeo and Juliet's story, however, reveals a different perspective. The first author, Luigi Da Porto, wrote in his foreword that the story aims to demonstrate the dangers of love. How ironic, considering that Da Porto himself was paralyzed from a war wound, as romantic love certainly isn't ideal at all times. Subsequent authors, such as Bandello, Boaistuau, Brooke, and Painter, criticized the mindless rush of the two young protagonists. The shift in appreciation can be attributed to Shakespeare, who first used this tragic tale to criticize hate rather than love. Love, indeed, is finely portrayed in his play, but it is not the main theme. Hate is the first thing presented, and ultimately, it is punished and rejected. This shift in appreciation is significant, as it reflects society's changing views on love.

A Tragic Love Story with a Triumphal Message

Some people forget that Romeo and Juliet is more than just a romance; it is a tragedy, albeit with a triumphal message. In Shakespeare's expert telling, the title characters die as is typical in tragedies, but this is not a spoiler. In their dying moments, Romeo and Juliet cause the two feuding families to finally end their vendettas. The story, therefore, is ultimately about how love overcomes hate, providing an optimistic twist. This theme was also retained in the modern musical West Side Story, where the tragic deaths of the rivals lead to a reconsideration of their violent and hateful ways. "I JUST MET. A GIRL NAMED MARIA!" encapsulates the realization that these characters find in their brief encounter.

Conclusion

The story of Romeo and Juliet continues to captivate audiences due to its powerful themes of love and hate, and its message of triumph over adversity. As society evolves, so does the interpretation of this timeless tale, making it a timeless and relevant story for millions of readers and viewers alike.