William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is a truly tragic play, where heroes and villains struggle for survival. Romeo Montague possesses many characteristics which allow him to become the play's tragic hero. The first characteristic of a tragic hero that Romeo possesses is a sense of calamity that befalls him many times, bringing him misery and despair; although preceded by moments of happiness and glory. Also, there are actions that lead to an apparently irreversible catastrophe. Romeo himself contributes to many of the catastrophes, adding more tragedy to the play. The suffering of Romeo is profound as a result of these catastrophes, enhancing the drama and despair. Romeo triggers feelings of pathos towards himself, as the reader feels pity for him. All of these characteristics represent why Romeo is looked upon as a tragic hero.
             One of the many reasons why Romeo can be seen as a tragic hero are the ultimate calamities which befall him many times during the play, when initially great joy and happiness are brought to his life. The first great joy (which became a calamity when he was banished from Mantua) that befalls Romeo comes when he goes to the Capulet mansion after the masquerade and Juliet proclaims her love for him. Romeo proposes to Juliet and she accepts, thus bringing great joy and happiness to them both. The second great joy for Romeo comes when Juliet and he are secretly married by Friar Lawrence. Romeo feels a sense of fulfillment and has never been happier in his life. These moments of exultation rapidly deteriorated into calamities because of subsequent developments.
             Ah, Juliet, if the measure of the joy
             Be heap'd like mine and that thy skill be more
             To blazon it, then sweeten with thy breath
             This neighbor air, and let rich music's tongue
             Unfold the imagined happiness that both
             Receive in either by this dear encounter.
             The third great joy that befalls Romeo comes when Juli...