Romeo is banished to Mantua, a city in Italy, after he kills Tybalt in a duel. This banishment is a severe punishment imposed by Prince Escalus, the ruler of Verona, as a consequence of Romeo’s violent act, which disrupts the peace in the city.
The choice of Mantua as the place of banishment is significant because it is not only a separate city, but also symbolizes the distance and separation between Romeo and Juliet. This geographical divide exacerbates their tragic situation, as it hinders their ability to be together and ultimately leads to a series of misunderstandings and tragic events.
Romeo’s banishment marks a turning point in the play, escalating the drama and setting in motion a chain of events that culminates in the tragic ending. It illustrates the theme of fate and the consequences of impulsive actions, as Romeo’s love for Juliet and his subsequent revenge against Tybalt put them on a path filled with misfortune.