* Both Tony and Romeo are young, passionate men who are in love with women from rival families.
* Both Tony and Romeo are ultimately killed because of their love.
* Both West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet are tragedies that explore the destructive power of love.
Differences
* Tony is a member of a street gang, while Romeo is a member of a noble family.
* Tony's love for Maria is forbidden by her family, while Romeo and Juliet's love is supported by their families.
* Tony is killed by Bernardo, Maria's brother, while Romeo is killed by Paris, Juliet's cousin.
Overall, Tony and Romeo are two very different characters who share some important similarities. Their stories are both tragic tales of love that ends in death.