Key problems encountered by Romeo and Juliet include societal prejudices, family loyalties, misunderstandings, rash decisions, and miscommunication:
1. Societal Prejudice: The Montagues and Capulets, Romeo and Juliet's respective families, have an intense and long-standing feud that precedes the play's events. This prejudice against each other's families fuels their actions throughout the play.
2. Family Loyalties: Both Romeo and Juliet prioritize their family's interests above all else. This is often seen throughout the play, with Romeo and Juliet choosing their families' sides even at the expense of their own love for each other.
3. Misunderstandings and Miscommunications: Miscommunication and misunderstandings play significant roles in the tragic turn of events. Some of these include:
- Friar Laurence's letter not reaching Romeo in time, leading him to believe Juliet is dead
- Juliet waking up just as Romeo takes poison by her side
- Romeo and Juliet's misunderstanding of each other's plans that leads to their tragic deaths.
4. Rash Decisions: Romeo and Juliet's passionate love for each other often leads them to make impulsive decisions without fully considering the consequences. For instance, their hasty marriage without consulting their families sets the stage for later conflicts.
5. Fate: The play is also known for the theme of fate, as if an external force is guiding the characters towards tragedy. This notion is supported by the recurring use of foreshadowing and imagery of death, suggesting that despite the characters' efforts to overcome obstacles, their love is ultimately doomed.
It is the combination of these factors that leads to the tragic end for Romeo and Juliet. Their love for each other is genuine, but the pressures of their society, family expectations, and rash decisions ultimately conspire to bring about their downfall.