It is evident that families have a significant impact on the lives of children. The rivalry between the two families in Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet, ultimately causes two young deaths. Romeo and Juliet fall in love at first sight at the Capulet ball and secretly get married by Friar Lawrence. However, because of their families’ foolish feud, they must hide their marriage, fearing one another’s death if their families are to find out. Skirmishes arise in the streets of Verona; one of which resulting in the deaths of Tybalt and Mercutio as well as Romeo’s banishment. Capulet, Juliet’s father, forces her to marry Paris, threatening her with death when she refuses. She cannot stand the thought of marrying anyone other than Romeo and turns to Friar Lawrence to devise a plan. The accumulation of these problems, caused by the rivalry between the Capulets and Montagues, leaves Romeo and Juliet thinking the only place to be happy together would be in heaven. …show more content…
When Romeo speaks out, startling Juliet, her instant thought is that because he is a Montague, he should leave for fear of his safety. She reveals her concern to Romeo, saying “If they do see thee, they will murder thee.” (Shakespeare 2.2. 75). Romeo responds “And, but thou love me, let them find me here. My life were better ended by their hate than death prorogued, wanting of my love.” (2.2. 81-83). Romeo expresses that he would rather be killed out of hatred toward his family than be separated from his true love, Juliet. Because of their families’ feud, Romeo and Juliet carry the pressure of hiding their love to protect one