Why you should read Romeo and Juliet

Abhijat Chaturvedi
2 min readJan 9, 2023

Romeo and Juliet, the iconic love story penned by William Shakespeare, has continued to bewitch and bedazzle audiences across the globe. But what about this play has made it so enduring and salient, even after four and a half centuries?

Photo by Simone Baldo on Unsplash

One reason Romeo and Juliet remain relevant today is that it deals with universal themes that are still germane in the contemporary world. Romeo and Juliet is a tale of young love that is thwarted by the forces of fate, society, and circumstance. It speaks to the heart and soul in a way that few other stories can and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love and the human spirit.

Another reason that Romeo and Juliet is still relevant today is its beautiful language and poetic imagery. Shakespeare’s mastery of language is on full display in this play, with lines like

“O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright”

the very famous,

“O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?”

Photo by Birmingham Museums Trust on Unsplash

setting a romantic and emotionally charged tone. Reading Romeo and Juliet is a true joy for anyone who appreciates excellent literature, and the play’s beautiful language and imagery continue to resonate with audiences today. In an age where many people consume media in quick, bite-sized pieces, the slow, measured beauty of Shakespeare’s language is a refreshing change of pace.

But the relevance of Romeo and Juliet goes beyond its themes and language. The play is also a fascinating window into the history and culture of the Elizabethan era, offering a glimpse into the society and customs of the time. Reading it can give us a greater understanding and appreciation of this fascinating historical period and help us better understand the world we live in today. It serves as a reminder that, as the saying goes,

“the more things change, the more they stay the same.”

Romeo and Juliet is a play that is still highly relevant today. Its universal themes, beautiful language, and historical context make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare, a connoisseur of great literature, or someone who enjoys a good love story, Romeo and Juliet is a play you should peruse. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the enduring power of love and the timeless nature of great storytelling.

--

--

Abhijat Chaturvedi

A reader by will, engineer by profession and human at heart.