At the beginning of the play, Juliet adheres to the traditional societal notions of love. When she first encounters Romeo at the Capulet ball, she is instantly smitten with his physical appearance, referring to him as "the loveliest gentleman" she has ever seen. Her initial attraction is based on external factors, such as physical beauty and social standing.
However, as Juliet falls deeper in love with Romeo, her understanding of love begins to change. She realizes that their love is not merely based on physical attraction or societal conventions but on a deeper, emotional connection. Despite the feud between their families, Juliet chooses to follow her heart and elope with Romeo. This act of defiance demonstrates her commitment to their love, even in the face of societal obstacles.
Juliet's love for Romeo becomes all-consuming, and she begins to express ideas that challenge the traditional expectations of women during that time. She asserts that her love is beyond material possessions and social norms. In her famous soliloquy, she proclaims, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." Through these words, Juliet suggests that love transcends external labels and societal boundaries, emphasizing the essence of the emotional connection.
Juliet's ideas about love also differ from the more pragmatic views held by her family and Nurse. While they prioritize factors like social status and family reputation, Juliet is willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of her love for Romeo. Her devotion is so intense that she is willing to risk her own life and go against the wishes of her family to be with Romeo, ultimately leading to the tragic events of the play.
In summary, Juliet's ideas about love evolve throughout the play, contrasting sharply with the conventional views of her time. Her journey of love demonstrates a growing understanding of the emotional depth and transformative power of love, which ultimately becomes a driving force in the tragic narrative of "Romeo and Juliet."