Social Media And Family Pressure In The Tragedy Of Romeo And Juliet

In society today, the choices of many young people are swayed through peer pressure, social media, and families. In William Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, he reveals that the decisions of young people are affected through the authoritative values of two families. Burdened by the high standards established by their family, Romeo and Juliet are required to make decisions on the behalf of their household’s status. Family values affect the decisions of young people through the influence of authoritative values and reality of societal pressure.

The decisions of young people are influenced by the authoritative family values learned from parental guidance. This is demonstrated as Juliet states, “but no more deep will I endart

This is seen as Lady Capulet mentions to Juliet, “Well, think of marriage now. Younger than you here in Verona, ladies of esteem are made already mothers.” (Romeo and Juliet.1.3.71-73). As Juliet’s mother emphasizes that Juliet is around the prime age of marriage, there is a tremendous amount of pressure on Juliet to marry quickly and extend the position of her family’s social status. Influenced by strong family values of marriage, Juliet has to make critical decisions in her life, knowing that her choices can considerably affect her family’s social status. This pressure of urgency causes the decisions of young people to be rushed and premature due to the constant stress of trying to appease the way society views them. On similar terms, the reality of societal pressure enforces the core family values of a person. This is demonstrated on Juliet’s balcony as Romeo expresses to Juliet, “And what love can do, that dares love attempt. Therefore thy kinsmen are no stop to me.” (Romeo and Juliet.2.2.68-69). Even with the realization that he could be killed if seen, Romeo still attempts to visit Juliet for the sake of love. Romeo’s act of courage indicates that his values of love are so fervent, that the pressure of death can be overcome with his affections. The reckless attitude of Romeo shows that the enforced values in a person can only be revealed through the reality of being in societal