'Darkness, death and sorrow dominate this play. There are no positive elements to the play.'
             In the play Romeo and Juliet darkness, death and sorrow are certainly present and often dominant at certain times throughout the story. However, these more negative aspects are not the focus of the whole play as there are many positive elements that also dominate in certain parts. Some of these positive elements that Shakespeare explores include love, comedy, friendship and courage. These positive elements are also as equally powerful in the play's overall theme as the more tragic elements.
             The theme of love in the story is exemplified by the adjectives powerful, positive, exclusive, strong, lasting, impulsive. It is a powerful love by the fact that it overcomes the immense family forces working to keep Romeo and Juliet apart. It is also a positive love because it is based upon the expectation by Romeo and Juliet of a happy and lasting life together. Their love is certainly exclusive as it totally focussed on each other, to the total exclusion of everyone else, including their friends and families. While their love is relatively short, it is strong and lasting and endures the remainder of their short lives.
             Their love is also based on impulse. Both Romeo and Juliet fell in love quickly and acted on their love without hesitation. This is one of the engaging and positive aspects of the play in that an impulsive love can be so strong despite the forces working against them.
             Friendship is also a very positive element in the play. Romeo and Juliet's love is based upon friendship and the commitment of loyalty and sharing. In particular, Romeo and Juliet's friends provide support to them in their times of need. When Juliet is mourning over Romeo's banishment from Verona she says 'mine (her tears) shall be spent, when theirs are dry, for Romeo's banishment' and the Nurse tries to help by promising that 'I'll fin
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