Answer:
Reading Romeo and Juliet is often required in school curriculums because it is a classic work of literature that has endured for centuries and is considered a foundational text of Western culture. The play conveys multiple themes and lessons, including the destructive power of hatred, the transcendent nature of love, the dangers of impulsive behavior, and the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations.
One of the key themes of the play is the destructive nature of hatred. The play portrays the bitter and longstanding feud between the Capulet and Montague families, which ultimately leads to the deaths of Romeo, Juliet, Tybalt, and Mercutio. The theme of hatred is highlighted in Act 3, Scene 1, where Tybalt kills Mercutio and then Romeo kills Tybalt out of revenge. The Prince, who is exasperated by the ongoing violence, proclaims, "Where be these enemies? Capulet, Montague, / See what a scourge is laid upon your hate, / That heaven finds means to kill your joys with love!" This quote underscores the play's message that hatred and violence only lead to suffering and tragedy.
Another major theme of the play is the transformative power of love. Romeo and Juliet's love for each other transcends the hatred and violence of their families and brings them together despite the odds. The theme of love is perhaps most poignantly captured in Romeo's famous line, "But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? / It is the east, and Juliet is the sun." This quote emphasizes the transformative power of love, which can elevate ordinary experiences and imbue life with meaning and purpose.
Overall, reading Romeo and Juliet can teach us valuable lessons about the power of love, the dangers of hatred, and the complex challenges that young people face as they navigate the demands of family, society, and their own desires.