People’s definition of love extends beyond the people they would fall in love with. In Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, the characters show love to an extensive number of people. This story illustrates that love for friends and family can be stronger than love for a significant other because the characters go to great lengths to care for and protect their friends and family in times of uncertainty.
Benvolio and the Nurse show unwavering support to their friends. Romeo, the hopeless romantic, is distraught with Rosaline and feels hopeless about finding love. Benvolio’s concern for Romeo is shown when he says, “[b]y giving liberty unto thine eyes: / Examine other beauties'' (Shakespeare 1.1.220-221). Therefore, Romeo responds by expressing
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Angry Tybalt seeks out Romeo to duel. Romeo calmly refuses because Tybalt is family after marrying Juliet. Nevertheless, Tybalt misunderstood, so he did not back down. However, Mercutio, who showcased his loyalty, confidently declares that he will fight instead of Romeo by saying, “[o] calm, dishonorable, vile submission! / … / Tybalt, you rat-catcher, will you walk?” (Shakespeare 3.1.72-74). Interestingly, Tybalt kills Mercutio in the fight. Mercutio refuses to taint Romeo’s reputation because they are friends. He displays tremendous love for Romeo by risking his life to protect something so meaningful to him, like his reputation. Friar Laurence also shows his love for Romeo in Act 5. After Romeo drinks the poison, Friar Laurence walks into the vault to find his lifeless body. Overwhelmed by grief, he says, “Romeo! O, pale! … Ah, what an unkind hour / is guilty of this lamentable chance!” (Shakespeare 5.3.144-146). Friar Laurence cares deeply for Romeo, almost like a father, and is remarkably upset when he sees him dead. Friar Laurance’s love for Romeo is more substantial than ever during Romeo's untimely death because of the deep mourning over Romeo. During trying times, people go to great lengths for the people they care about for various reasons, regardless of the