Since the beginning of time there have always been conflict, destroying countries, groups of people, and even families. In Romeo and Juliet we witness conflict destroy the ability of the young couple to be together, or even be openly with one another. The Montague and Capulet feud is a long standing rivalry between the two head of houses present throughout the play. The two lovers avoid the strife to become newly married in complete secrecy. Also, Romeo’s inability to oversee his own future leads to distorted choices made when it comes to love. Therefore, in Romeo and Juliet the feud and Romeo’s decisions are held liable with the actions of both families because they lead to the separation of the young couple and untimely death.
The feud
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Romeo does not believe that he can control his own destiny which leads to wrong decisions and false choices. It is very evident “Romeo’s character flaw is that he believes in the fates and therefore feels powerless to help himself,”(Lois Kerschen). This flaw holds Romeo back from deciding between right and wrong, leading him down the path of death and despair. During his parade through the streets with his friends Romeo exclaims “by some vile forfeit of untimely death. But he that hath the steerage of my course, direct my sail. On, lusty gentlemen,”(Shakespeare Act 1 Scene 4 112-114). Romeo presumes that he cannot alter his fate, so upon the first glance of Juliet, his sudden love is due to the sight of beauty that he believes he cannot control but must act consequently. Shortly after the death of Mercutio Romeo challenges Tybalt feeling that with ”Mercutio slain! Away to heaven, respective lenity, and fire-eyed fury be my conduct now,”(Shakespeare Act 3 Scene 84-86). Rage fills Romeo’s head making him obligated to fix the situation which leads to the death of Tybalt and the banishment of Romeo. Romeo’s poor decisions and lack of ability to oversee his own choices guides him to his and Juliet’s