Good Intentions in Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Good Intentions in Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

‘Rome and Juliet’ opens with us being told that, “Two households, both

alike in dignity… from ancient grudge break to new mutiny.” ‘Ancient’

is the key word in this sentence - a grudge so old and silly, no one

can actually remember how it all started. As a result of this ancient,

deep-rooted feud, “A pair of star cross’d lovers take their life.” To

this extent, it seems we have to go no further than the prologue to

answer this essay. As long as there is underlying hatred, the families

will never be able to fulfil any sort of happiness - there is always

likely to be bursts of anger. Although many characters try to do the

right thing, they get frustrated and things go wrong; anger gets in

the way.

The play begins with Capulet throwing a feast. Parties are an easy way

of getting to know people, Capulet’s good intention is to find a

husband (Paris, “But woo her, gentle Paris.”) for his daughter.

Benvolio, on the other hand, his good intention is to take Romeo to

the party to help him overcome being love-sick for Rosaline. Although,

he chooses Juliet - not the best choice. Everything goes wrong, as

Romeo is recognised by Tybalt, who is angry already at the

gate-crashing of the Montagues. Lord Capulet does not want a brawl at

his feast and orders Tybalt to ignore the matter, “Content thee,

gentle coz, let him alone”, this only makes him more angry.

Since the night of the feast, Romeo and Juliet have secretly been an

item. Both the Nurse and Friar Lawrence try to do the right thing to

help them. Nurse acts as a go-between for the two lovers, believing

that it will make Juliet happy, Lawrence agrees to conduct the wedding

hoping it will unite the families, “To turn your households’ rancour

to pure love”. Now that Romeo is to marry a Capulet, he will not rise

to the challenge Tybalt sets. As a result, Mercutio gets involved and