In Webster’s Dictionary, loyalty is defined as the quality or state or an instance of being loyal and loyal is defined as an unswerving in allegiance. In Elizabethan England, loyalty was believed to be the ultimate test of a gentleman’s character, that only those who passed this test could be considered the perfect Elizabethan gentleman. Shakespeare believed this too. In, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, loyalty is a very prevalent theme throughout the comedy. In Act I, the friendship of Proteus and Valentine is quickly established. Valentine is leaving Verona to continue his education in the court of the Duke of Milan, leaving his friend behind. Proteus’ passion for Julia has caused him to be stationary, a virtual prisoner of love. Before departing, Valentine observed, “Love is your master, for he masters you” (Act I. Scene I. Line 42). He is, in essence, warning Proteus that he should love, but love wisely, and not abandon all else in his pursuit of passion. It is established that the bond between the two men is strong and Valentine exhibits genuine concern for his friend. It is also apparent that Proteus is deeply in love with Julia, and when his father, Antonio, suggests that he join his friend Valentine by going to Milan, Proteus is genuinely distressed about being separated from his beloved Julia. However, he does as he’s told, demonstrating loyalty to his father. Meanwhile, in Milan, Valentine has fallen in love with Silvia, the Duke of Milan’s daughter. Like Proteus for Julia, Valentine is utterly love-struck, and suddenly, he understands what it means to be ruled by one’s heart, rather than one’s head. Silvia returns Valentine’s affections, but unfortunately, the Duke has other ideas. He prefers Thurio as a more suitable match for his daughter. In Act II, with Proteus’ arrival just round the corner, the Duke inquires as to his character, and Valentine glowi...
