Question

How are the themes of familial love and secrecy developed in Romeo and Juliet, act II, scenes I–III? What does the institution of family indicate about the duty and obligation of family members? How does the institution of family contribute to the secrecy of Romeo and Juliet's love?

Answer 1

The theme familial love is developed by the natural love towards family and not wanting to betray them. But the secrecy comes in when Romeo and Juliet keep their love secret from their feuding families. The institution of family indicates how the loyalty for your family should remain strong and under no circumstance should be betrayed nor forgotten. Romeo, a Montague, and Juliet, a Capulet, fall for each other, betraying their family's feud. Juliet then states that she would give up being a Capulet just for the hand of her love. The secrecy of their romance is then formed. According to the story, it states, "If they see you, they'll murder you." This strikes a fear in them, causing Romeo and Juliet's love to be locked away.

Answer 2

Romeo's and Juliet's families are known to be rival to the point that they're willing to kill each other.
Both of them of course love their own family, but their love to each other is greater than that, and the only way for them to continue express their love to each other is through secrecy