Staging Masculinities. Romeo, Guilty or not Guilty at the “Cesare Beccaria” Youth Detention Centre

This paper explores the complex representations of masculinity in Romeo and Juliet, examining how Shakespeare portrays young men caught between love, aggression and societal expectations. Through a close analysis of key characters such as Romeo, Mercutio, Benvolio and Tybalt, the study shows how their actions reflect different aspects of masculine identity, from romantic idealism to violent assertiveness. The play’s depiction of the volatile nature of masculinity, influenced by family feuds and personal honour, provides a lens through which to understand the destructive consequences of rigid gender norms. By examining the tragic outcomes of these characters’ lives, the paper links Shakespeare’s portrayal of masculinity to contemporary issues such as gang violence and the pressure to conform to traditional male roles, offering insights into ways in which masculinity is constructed and challenged at the “Cesare Beccaria” youth detention centre.