In William Shakespeare's play, The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, the concept of good and evil is explored through the characters and their actions. However, upon closer examination, it becomes apparent that nothing is inherently good or evil, but rather it is the perception and context in which it is viewed that determines its moral value. This idea is highlighted through various quotes throughout the play.
One example of this is when Friar Laurence says, "Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied, / And vice sometime by action dignified" (2.3.21-22). Here, the Friar is suggesting that even the most virtuous of actions can become sinful when carried out in the wrong context. Similarly, an action that may seem immoral on the surface can be elevated to a higher status if it serves a greater purpose. This idea is echoed later in the play when Romeo kills Tybalt, and Friar Laurence acknowledges that although the act may seem wicked, it was done out of love and loyalty to his friend (3.3.148-149).
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At the beginning of the play, she is portrayed as innocent and pure, but as the story progresses, she becomes more complex and conflicted. When she decides to marry Romeo in secret, she is going against her family's wishes and defying societal norms. However, this act of rebellion is done out of love and is ultimately what brings her and Romeo together. Juliet acknowledges this when she says, "My only love sprung from my only hate! / Too early seen unknown, and known too late!" (1.5.138-139). In this moment, Juliet recognizes that her love for Romeo has overridden her hatred for the Montagues, and that the line between good and evil is not as clear-cut as she once