romeo and juliet argumentative essay conclusion

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Who is to blame? Romeo and Juliet notes

WHO IS TO BLAME

“Romeo and Juliet” is a young couple’s play about love and hate, adolescent angst and death by Shakespeare. The continual feud between the Montague and the Capulet families results in ongoing conflict. There are many factors that are responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. Friar Lawrence, fate and their parents can be held responsible for their tragic demise. But the lovers too, especially Romeo, makes some poor decisions. Miscalculation and accidents also play a part.

See some Sample paragraphs based on TEEL structure for text response.

THE FEUDING FAMILIES  

The feud is responsible for the tragic deaths. They are born into enemy families and it is expected that both marry a person from the same family. There is a lot of ill-feeling and hatred between the two clans. The feuding families creates a malignant context for the lovers. The play is about ‘The fearful passage of their death-mark’d love, And the continuance of their parents’ rage, which but their children’s end nought could remove. ’

When Juliet first meets Romeo she knows that their relationship is cursed because it is her fate to fall in love with a member of the enemy household. Juliet and Romeo are both determined to find a way to be together and get married despite their enemy status. Juliet regrets that Romeo is a Montague, but she asks, “What’s in a name”. She tells Romeo, “doff thy name … and take all myself.”

Marriage plans:

Lord Capulet insists on the marriage.  (Act 4/1 and Act 3/5)

Lord and Lady Capulet force her to marry Paris without asking her opinion because they assume that she will obey them. They misunderstand the extent and purpose of her grief following Tybalt’s death. They think it is simply unhealthy.

When she does not obey their orders, Lord Capulet gets angry “Hang you, you minx! You disobedient wretch! I’ll tell you now: Go to the church on Thursday, or never look on my face again!” He is very arrogant and shows little concern for Juliet’s feelings. He accuses her of being ungrateful. This makes Juliet extremely unhappy and gives her further reason to be disobedient. As a result she consults Friar Lawrence.

  MERCUTIO AND TYBALT

The continued brawling between clan members such as Tybalt and Mercutio directly leads to Romeo’s exile. BOTH Mercutio (Montagues) and Tybalt (Capulet) are troublemakers.  Shakespeare constructs the two figures as mirror images of their different families. Both and Mercutio incite hatred and inflame the tension between the two clans.  Both bear a grudge against each other. They both use words and phrases to deliberately offend each other.

Mercutio is just as provocative as Tybalt. When they meet in Act III, Mercutio states that “I care not” that Tybalt is coming and that they must prevent a fight. His language and his words are very inflammatory. In response to Tybalt he states “a word and a blow”.  He deliberately misunderstands/ misinterprets Tybalt’s words, “consortst” as an insult. Tybalt deliberately uses the word “consort’st” because of its double meaning.  As a result, Mercutio interprets this offensively. He is the one who draws his “fiddlestick” or sword first and prompts a fight.   He refuses to listen to reason from either Benvolio or Romeo.  He also refers to Romeo’s words of peace as “vile submission”.

Likewise, Mercutio hates Tybalt and provokes him to a fight when he asks if Tybalt, the “Good King of Cats”, is a coward, “Tybalt, you rat-catcher, will you walk” (3.1)

Tybalt is also provocative and greets Romeo with the phrase “here comes my man”.   Tybalt has a grudge against Romeo from the time he comes to the ball. He is stubborn, hot-tempered and provocative. Tybalt says he hates “peace” as he hates “hell, all Montagues, and thee.” He says to Romeo, “thou art a villain”, which refers to the fact that he is intended as an insult and refers to a man of inferior birth, as a peasant.  He tells Romeo, “turn and draw”.

He also feels slighted that Lord Capulet seems to protect Romeo and state that he is a “virtuous” and “well-govern’d youth” with a good reputation. This seems to fuel Tybalt’s sense of inferiority, and, feeling slighted and aggrieved, he is constantly looking for an outlet to vent his anger on Romeo.

He derails R’s attempts to mediate between the clans.  He exacerbates and aggravates the tension between the clans. He refers to Romeo as his “man” which is a pun on servant; it is demeaning. He states that he cannot excuse the “injuries that thou hast done me”.

Tybalt refuses to take Romeo seriously, when he states that he “loves thee better than thou canst devise”. He goes against the Prince’s orders when he provokes the brawl and kills Mercutio, thus provoking Romeo.  He is so hot-tempered that he takes advantage of Romeo’s attempts to restrain Mercutio and stabs him. He recklessly and impulsively stabs Mercutio thus precipating a chain of action that leads to the death of both Romeo and Juliet.

When Romeo kills Tybalt, Romeo must flee. Because of his fiery nature, he becomes the catalyst for the ensuring tragic events.  He lacks Romeo’s charitable attitude and peaceable nature.

Both Tybalt and Mercutio play a major role in Romeo’s downfall. They refuse to settle for peace. They deliberately use inflammatory words. They both want to fight.

ROMEO has a tendency to be impulsive and this contributes to his exile . Even Friar Lawrence tries to warn him that it is not good to be impulsive. Friar Lawrence is shocked that Romeo has so quickly changed his affection from Rosaline to Juliet. However, Romeo does display his love for Juliet when he tries to restrain Tybalt and states that contrary to expectation he “love(s) thee better than thou canst devise”

After Tybalt kills Mercutio, he decides that he must defend his honour and no longer shows control and restraint. He imagines that his love has weakened him. He worries that Juliet’s “beauty hath made me effeminate” and is determined to change this. He says let “fire-eyed fury be my conduct now”. Only when it is too late, he realizes how foolish he has been. He realizes he is “fortune’s fool” and doomed by their feuding families. Sadly, Romeo also panics when he sees Juliet in the casket.

THE TRAGEDY is a catalogue of errors originating in Fr L’s ill-hatched plan.

• it was too sophisticated and risk-laden (despite its worthy aims) and ends up with disastrous consequences
• he encourages Juliet to deceive her parents; she fakes death which is a very upsetting experience for her parents.
• F L does not have any back-up plans; Friar John was waylaid by authorities and FL fails inform Balthasar who hurries to tell Romeo about Juliet’s death.
• R ends up distraught and unable to think clearly: Romeo is too young and impulsive to evaluate the situation when it backfired

  Ill-hatched plan 

Friar Lawrence’s scheme is not well planned and is perhaps too sophisticated for the young lovers. Juliet blindly places her faith in Friar Lawrence and when the plan backfires both Romeo and Juliet are too young, naive and innocent to think of other remedies.

Friar Lawrence instigates the dangerous plan that has disastrous consequences, although love and peace are his main aims. He states that “ this this alliance may so happy prove to turn your households’ rancour to pure love’ .  Friar organises the risk-laden scheme which seeks to avoid Juliet’s hasty marriage to Paris. (Also he knows that Juliet is threatening to kill herself if he does not find a solution.)  The plan appears simple, but it is full of risks.

It encourages Juliet to deceive her parents.  She feigns death which leads to disaster upon the lack of communication with Romeo.  Friar Lawrence’s scheme is not well planned and is perhaps too sophisticated for the young lovers. Juliet blindly places her faith in Friar Lawrence and when the plan backfires both Romeo and Juliet are too young, naive and innocent to think of other remedies.

He does not have any back-up plans. Friar John is held up by the authorities. He is unable to give Romeo the letter about Friar Lawrence’s scheme because he and another monk were delayed by the authorities and quarantined. (“Where the infectious pestilence did reign, Seal’d up the doors, and would not let us forth”.)

Friar Lawrence fails to inform, Romeo’s servant Balthasar, who hurries to Romeo with the news that Juliet is dead. He begs Romeo to show patience, which may have led to a different outcome. Pale and wildly impetuous, Romeo decides to go straight to her tomb.

When he learns about her “death” Romeo rushes to buy poison. In front of Juliet’s body he remains with their memories. He remembers the memory of her kiss: “Death, that hath suck’d the honey of thy breath.” After his death by “true apothecary”, Juliet wakes up and kills herself with a “dagger”

The rivalry between the M and C were the main reason for the death of Romeo and Juliet. Discuss.

Sample paragraphs. 

The simmering brawl between warring clan members such as Tybalt and Mercutio directly precipitates the chain of tragic events that leads to Romeo’s exile and the lovers’ death. Shakespeare constructs the two figures as mirror images of their different families which bear an ancient grudge that is difficult, or impossible, to resolve. Both Mercutio, a Montague,  and Tybalt, a Capulet, are clearly troublemakers; both are antagonistic towards the Prince’s decree that … “if you ever disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay the price of it”.   Initially at the masked ball, Tybalt is warned by Capulet to bury his resentment, but instead he is left smouldering from what he feels as an offensive intrusion by a Montague. During the later street encounter, Mercutio is just as provocative as Tybalt. When they meet in Act III, Mercutio states that “I care not” that Tybalt is coming and that they must prevent a fight. Shakespeare constructs the scene in such a way to show how their continued enmity obstructs reconciliation and peace. He employs puns that are used by both Tybalt and Merc to inflame the situation. For example, Mercutio deliberately misunderstands/ misinterprets Tybalt’s words, “consortst”, used because of its double meaning, as an insult. M is the one who draws his “fiddlestick” or sword first and prompts a fight.   He refuses to listen to reason from either Benvolio or Romeo.  He also refers to Romeo’s words of peace as “vile submission”.   Likewise, Mercutio hates Tybalt and provokes him to a fight when he asks if Tybalt, the “Good King of Cats”, is a coward, “Tybalt, you rat-catcher, will you walk” (3.1) Eventually the death of M and then Tybalt leads to Romeo’s exile and the ill-hatched plan of Friar Lawrence.

If Mercutio and Tybalt act as catalysts, Shakespeare also depicts Lord Capulet as a contributing partner to the tragedy owing to the misuse of his power and authority. His misguided arrogance and despotic nature seal her fate owing to the hasty order to marry Paris, in complete disregard of her wellbeing. Whilst there are some redeeming features to Capulet such as his conciliatory attitude displayed towards Romeo at the masked ball, Shakespeare does place considerable emphasis on his unreasonable order to hastily marry Paris. He clearly misunderstands Juliet’s wishes and the purpose of her grief following Tybalt’s death.   Shakespeare depicts Tybalt as clearly sharp despotic ordering her to marry. “Hang you minx …” (quotes…) Shakespeare continues to show how the misuse of his authority and power, which could have been used to solve the feud, instead contributes to the tragic chain of events that leads to the death of the lovers

Whilst most members of the feuding families have a direct influence on the outcome, Friar Lawrence’s ill-hatched plan has an indirect influence on the hasty deaths of the lovers as Romeo is bound for exile. However, in the scheme of the play, Shakespeare would suggest that his role, whilst unfortunate, is less blameworthy because of his motives to secure peace. Also, he acted in the best interests of the lovers aware of the depth of their feeling.  (Quotes for F L …) However, the plan was nevertheless too sophisticated and risk-laden to withstand the degree of bad luck and unfortunate circumstances. …   the passionate lovers took drastic and impetuous measures.

See some Sample paragraphs based on TEEL structure for text response. Return to  Notes: Romeo and Juliet

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114 Romeo and Juliet Essay Titles & Examples

Looking for Romeo and Juliet essay titles? The world’s most tragic story is worth writing about!

🥀 Best Romeo and Juliet Essay Titles

🖤 romeo and juliet essay prompts.

• 🏆 Best Romeo and Juliet Essay Examples

📌 Interesting Romeo and Juliet Essay Topics

🎭 easy titles for romeo and juliet essays, 👍 exciting romeo and juliet title ideas, ❓ romeo and juliet essay questions.

Romeo and Juliet is probably the most famous tragedy by William Shakespeare. It is a story of two young lovers whose deaths reconcile their feuding families. Whether you are assigned an argumentative, persuasive, or analytical essay on this piece of literature, this article will answer all your questions. Below you’ll find Romeo and Juliet essay examples, thesis ideas, and paper topics.

• “Romeo and Juliet”: character analysis
• What role does the setting play in “Romeo and Juliet”?
• “Romeo and Juliet” and antique tradition of tragic love stories
• Theme of love in “Romeo and Juliet”
• What role does the theme of fate play in “Romeo and Juliet”?
• “Romeo and Juliet”: dramatic structure analysis
• Analyze the balcony scene in “Romeo and Juliet”
• “Romeo and Juliet”: feminist criticism
• The most famous adaptations of “Romeo and Juliet”
• “Romeo and Juliet” in the world culture

Keep reading to learn the key points you can use to write a successful paper.

• Original Italian Tale vs. Shakespeare’s Tragedy

The story described in Shakespeare’s tragedy is based on the Italian tale that was translated into English in the sixteenth century. Original version represents situations and lines from Romeo and Juliet lives.

Shakespeare added a few more main characters: Mercutio, Paris, and Tybalt. Numerous researches state that Shakespeare used three sources to write his tragedy: a novella Giulietta e Romeo by Matteo Bandello, written in 1554; a story Il Novellio, by Masuccio Salernitano; and the Historia Novellamente Ritrovata di Due Nobili Amanti, written by Luigi Da Porto.

You can learn more about these novels to find out similarities and differences between primary sources and Shakespeare’s work

• Love and Fate in Romeo and Juliet

If you’re going to write Romeo and Juliet essay on fate, read this paragraph. Fate is the fundamental concept of the plot. It makes us look at Romeo and Juliet affair as a single tragedy.

At the same time, another core element of the story is love. From the very beginning of the drama, you will clearly understand that the story will end in tragedy.

Shakespeare shows us the value of fate events.

However, love remains a crucial thematic element. The roles of Nurse, Paris, and Romeo show us a physical attraction, sympathy, and romantic affection while being the embodiment of love. Analyze what type of love is represented by each character in your essay. Explain, what do you think real love is.

• Value and Duality in Romeo and Juliet

Among the central idea to consider for your Romeo and Juliet essay titles is an issue of value and duality. Shakespeare actively uses duality in his tragedy by representing the deaths of Romeo and Juliet as reasons of tragedy in Verona, which brought new order to the city.

Friar Laurence also reveals ambiguity when he helped Romeo and thus forced young lovers to suffer in the end. The decision to marry couple had a reason to end the conflict between Montague and Capulets.

Romeo and Juliet’s example discloses happiness and blame brought by key episodes and change in society. In your writing, you may analyze how the effect of adoration had influenced Romeo, Juliet, and other people lives.

• Masculinity in Romeo and Juliet

A lot of Romeo and Juliet essay examples analyze the role of gender and masculinity in the tragedy. Mercutio is shown as a classic example of a real man: active, brave citizen.

He is a person of action. On the other hand, Romeo is described as a boy who seeks for love. Romeo and Juliet love thrown into quarreling world.

You can analyze the reasons why Romeo fights and kills Paris when finding him near Juliet body.

Covering all of the points mentioned above will help you to produce an outstanding Romeo and Juliet essay. Check the samples below to get inspiration and more ideas that you can use in your own paper.

🏆 Best Romeo and Juliet Topic Ideas & Essay Examples

• Different Types of Love Portrayed in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet Term Paper In regards to this communication, the issue of romantic love between Romeo and Juliet is highlighted7. The concept of true love is no where to be seen in Romeo and Juliet’s relationship.
• The Portrayal of Fate in “Romeo and Juliet” Thus, the play Romeo and Juliet demonstrates that fate is the invisible, unavoidable force behind the entirety of the human experience.
• William Shakespeare “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” This paper examines romantic love as the source of joy and fulfillment in “Romeo and Juliet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. Love is the source of pain and suffering in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”.
• The Renaissance Time During Romeo and Juliet Men and women performed different roles in the household; the man was responsible for farming while the woman took care of the poultry and dairy. In the upper-class, marriages were arranged and the parents chose […]
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• William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” in Baz Luhrmann’s Interpretation The fragility of love in this work is contrasted with its hardness – it can be compared in quality and beauty to a cut diamond.
• Romeo and Juliet’s Analysis and Comparison With the Film Romeo Must Die It can be concluded that, in the case of the original Romeo and Juliet, the main heroes are dying, but their families reconcile.
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• Franco Zeffirelli’s “Romeo and Juliet” Adaptation As the plot of the play develops and the reader gets more involved in the reading of the play, the constant need to read the stage directions has a disruptive effect on the reader’s interaction […]
• Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet: Act 1 Scene 4 Review In this speech alone we see Mercutio in direct opposition to all of the characters in Romeo and Juliet while at the same time we are provided an alternate point of view to the ideals […]
• “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare: Play’s Concept In Romeo and Juliet, the development of characters eventually led to the tragedy of the main characters. The love of Romeo and Juliet is a remarkable love as they have to undergo many obstacles to […]
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• Character Analysis of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” The Renaissance in Italy was a time in which historians and writers were most active, sparking a new wave of literacy in the Italian world, said to be the father of Renaissance Europe.
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• Love and Sadness in the First Act of “Romeo and Juliet” The love story of Romeo and Juliet is well known to most people, but one might forget that Romeo was initially not in love with Juliet; he met her later.
• Carlo Carlea’s Film “Romeo and Juliet” The new adaptation of my play generally made a controversial impression: the actors look suitable for their roles, but the internal theme of the play seems to be not so profoundly got.
• “Romeo and Juliet” Staged in Greek Style According to the analysis, it is evident that even though the story, plot, and characters stay the same, the change in the style of “Romeo and Juliet” will have a significant difference from the original […]
• Oh Tae-Suk’s Romeo and Juliet Oh Tae-suk is a South-Korean playwright and director, well-known for his masterful portrayal of modern Korean life and the use of the elements of the traditional Korean theater in his plays.
• Friar Lawrence in “Romeo and Juliet” by Shakespeare The strengths of such friendships can be seen in the way Friar Laurence accepts and anticipates Romeo’s actions, showing that he is ready to hear him as a friend not as a priest, “Doth couch […]
• Nurse and Friar Laurence in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” The way Friar Laurence supported Romeo and Juliet to get Married, The way the Nurse is opposing in her regards of Romeo and Paris, When Friar Laurence clandestinely married them, the way the Nurse is […]
• “Analysis of Causes of Tragic Fate in Romeo and Juliet Based on Shakespeare’s View of Fate” by Jie Li The article is easy to read and makes a compelling case for the reasons that precipitated the tragedy in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
• “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Winter’s Tale” Comparison Because of the importance of the role of plants and trees in the two abovementioned plays, it would be reasonable to consider each of the plays in detail.
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Understanding the Argumentative Essay on Romeo and Juliet

Explanation.

In the study of English literature, one of the key skills students are expected to develop is the ability to write an effective argumentative essay. This type of essay requires students to analyze and evaluate a particular literary work while presenting a clear and persuasive argument. In this case, we will explore the argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet, a tragedy written by William Shakespeare.

Throughout this topic, we will examine the essential components of an argumentative essay, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. We will also focus on language usage, grammatical structures, and literary devices that can be employed to strengthen the argument and enhance the overall quality of the essay. By the end, you will have a solid understanding of how to write an impactful argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet.

1. Introduction

The introduction is the opening section of an essay that serves to set the tone and provide necessary background information to the reader. When writing an argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet, it is important to grab the reader's attention by starting with a captivating hook or an interesting fact related to the play. For instance:

• Did you know that Romeo and Juliet is one of the most famous love stories in the world, even after more than four centuries?

Following the hook, the introduction should present the topic, provide a brief summary of the play, and clarify the author's stance or main argument. In the case of an argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet, the writer might argue that the tragic outcome of the play could have been avoided if not for the impulsive actions of the main characters, Romeo and Juliet.

Furthermore, the introduction should include a clear and concise thesis statement that highlights the main argument of the essay. For example:

• This essay will argue that the tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet were a result of their impulsive decisions, with the feud between their families serving only as a catalyst.

The thesis statement serves as a roadmap for the essay, indicating the main points the writer will discuss in the body paragraphs. It is crucial to ensure that the thesis statement is arguable and concise, giving the reader a clear understanding of the writer's position.

2. Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs form the bulk of the argumentative essay, providing evidence and analysis to support the main argument presented in the thesis statement. Ideally, an argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet should consist of at least three body paragraphs, each addressing a distinct point or piece of evidence.

Body Paragraph 1

In the first body paragraph, the writer should introduce and analyze the impulsive nature of Romeo. This can be supported with examples from the play, such as his immediate infatuation with Juliet at the Capulet's party or his hasty decision to duel and eventually kill Tybalt after the death of Mercutio. The writer should also discuss how Romeo's impulsiveness directly contributes to the tragic outcome of the play.

To strengthen the argument, the writer can incorporate literary devices such as foreshadowing or dramatic irony. For instance, the famous quote "O, I am fortune's fool!" uttered by Romeo after killing Tybalt can be analyzed to highlight how his impulsive actions led to his downfall.

Body Paragraph 2

In the second body paragraph, the writer should shift the focus to Juliet and discuss her impulsive decisions throughout the play. Examples could include her expressiveness of love towards Romeo and her decision to fake her death rather than finding an alternative solution. The writer should provide in-depth analysis of these actions and explain how they contribute to the tragic end of the play.

Literary devices such as symbolism can be employed to enhance the argument. For example, the writer can discuss the significance of the sleeping potion Juliet consumes, symbolizing her desperation and impulsiveness in choosing death over a life without Romeo.

Body Paragraph 3

In the third body paragraph, the writer should explore the role of the feuding families, the Montagues and the Capulets, in Romeo and Juliet's tragic fate. The writer can argue that the long-standing vendetta between the families creates an environment of hostility and secrecy, forcing Romeo and Juliet to make hasty decisions without proper consideration. The writer should provide specific examples from the play to illustrate how the family feud exacerbates the impulsive actions of the main characters.

To strengthen the analysis, the writer can incorporate quotes and textual evidence from the play to illustrate the destructive influence of the family feud. For instance, the conversation between Juliet and her nurse, where Juliet states, "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" can be analyzed to highlight the impact of the family feud on their relationship.

3. Conclusion

The conclusion is the final section of an argumentative essay and should summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. The writer should restate the thesis statement and provide a concise summary of the arguments made throughout the essay. Additionally, the conclusion should reiterate the significance of the main argument and the importance of the topic in broader contexts.

To create a lasting impression, the writer can end the essay with a thought-provoking question or a powerful statement related to the play Romeo and Juliet. For example:

• By examining the impulsive decisions of Romeo and Juliet and the role of their feuding families, it becomes evident that the tragedy could have been avoided. So, we are left to wonder, are we truly in control of our own destinies?

In conclusion, writing an argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet requires careful analysis of the play's characters, themes, and literary devices. By employing effective language usage, grammatical structures, and relevant quotations, students can craft a persuasive argument that engages readers and prompts critical thinking. Remember to structure the essay with a captivating introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion. With practice, you will be able to master the art of writing an argumentative essay on Romeo and Juliet and apply the same skills to various other literary works.

Questions related to Understanding the Argumentative Essay on Romeo and Juliet

Final answer:.

In Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', Friar Laurence can arguably be deemed as the most responsible for the couple's death due to his well intentioned yet faulty actions and planning.

Explanation:

In the tragic play 'Romeo and Juliet' by William Shakespeare , there are many characters that contribute to the unfortunate ends of the star-crossed lovers. However, Friar Laurence can be seen as particularly to blame, even though his intentions were good, his actions led to the fatal turn of events.

His choice to marry Romeo and Juliet alone was an attempt to unite their feuding families, but it was done secretly, and without permission from either family. Moreover, it is his plan that leads Romeo and Juliet to their deaths - the plan for Juliet to fake her own death to avoid marrying Paris. "Take thou this vial, being then in bed, And this distilling liquor drink thou off; When presently through all thy veins shall run." (Act 4, Scene 1) - the words of the Friar handing over a potion to Juliet, that leads to the tragedy.

The Friar did not ensure Romeo received his letter explaining the plan, leading Romeo to believe that Juliet really was dead and causing him to take his own life. When he arrived too late to the Capulet’s tomb, instead of staying with Juliet, who was going to wake up from the deep sleep, he ran away leaving her alone to wake up to Romeo's dead body, leading her to kill herself. He had numerous opportunities throughout the play to confide in their parents or amend his strategies but didn’t do so.

To conclude, even though many characters' actions contributed to their death, Friar Laurence might carry the most blame due to his interference and improper planning. His good intentions resulted in a plan filled with holes that ultimately brought nothing but tragedy .

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Final Answer:

The implementation of comprehensive sex education in high schools is essential for fostering informed decision-making, reducing unplanned pregnancies, and preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Drawing evidence from five reputable sources, this essay contends that a holistic approach to sex education positively impacts students' health and well-being.

Comprehensive sex education is pivotal in shaping adolescents' understanding of their sexual health and relationships. In a study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health, it was found that schools with comprehensive sex education programs had significantly lower rates of teenage pregnancies compared to those with abstinence-only programs (Source 1). This highlights the effectiveness of providing students with accurate information about contraception and reproductive health.

Moreover, informed decision-making is a crucial skill that students acquire through comprehensive sex education. The Guttmacher Institute reports that comprehensive programs contribute to delayed sexual initiation and increased use of contraception among teenagers (Source 2). This underscores the importance of equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to make responsible choices regarding their sexual health.

In addressing counterclaims, opponents may argue that abstinence-only education is more effective. However, a study by the Journal of Adolescent Health reveals that abstinence-only programs do not delay the initiation of sexual activity or reduce the frequency of sexual intercourse among teenagers (Source 3). By refuting this counterclaim, the essay underscores the empirical evidence supporting comprehensive sex education as a more pragmatic approach to promoting healthier behaviors among adolescents.

In conclusion, the implementation of comprehensive sex education is crucial for the overall well-being of high school students. By examining evidence from reputable sources, this essay advocates for a shift towards comprehensive programs that empower students with accurate information, foster informed decision-making, and contribute to a healthier adolescent population.

The debate between passion and knowledge for a subject is prominent in an academic setting. While passion drives curiosity and innovation, knowledge provides a foundation for making substantial contributions. Both are important, but ideally, they should work in tandem for the most effective learning and application.

The concept that passion for a subject is more crucial than having knowledge about it sparkles a stimulating debate, particularly in an academic environment. Having passion entails an emotional involvement and a deep, intrinsic motivation that fuels dedication and persistence in exploring a subject. On the other hand, knowledge represents the actual information, facts, and skills acquired through experience or education concerning that subject.

Some argue that passion is the foundation upon which knowledge can be built, ultimately leading to expertise. It is the drive that stimulates one's curiosity, often leading to profound insights and innovative thinking. As the saying goes, 'Imagination is more important than knowledge.' Indeed, it is passion that can inspire someone to undertake deep thinking and exploration beyond what is already known, to challenge existing paradigms, and to continuously seek improvement and learning.

However, an argument in favor of knowledge states that without a solid foundation of facts and understanding, one's passion might be misguided or unproductive. In an academic context, especially at the college level, it is imperative to possess a certain degree of knowledge to construct a nuanced and compelling argument. Passion alone may fuel the drive, but knowledge equips an individual with the tools to navigate complex concepts and contribute meaningfully to a subject. Furthermore, students who lack the necessary background information often find themselves struggling, having to backfill gaps in their understanding which could impede their ability to craft a robust argument.

In conclusion, while passion is undeniably a powerful catalyst for engagement and learning, it should ideally be complemented by a sound knowledge base to ensure that one's enthusiasm is effectively channeled into fruitful endeavors. The most successful individuals are often those who have managed to harness their passion to acquire and apply knowledge in ways that drive innovation and progress within their field of interest.

In Romeo's speech in Act II of The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. The last word" she " refers to Juliet .

In the lines  preexisting the use of" she," Romeo compares Juliet to the sun and the moon , and expresses his own desire for her to be with him and remove the"   jealous " moon. The use of" she" in the last line of the speech is a   continuity of Romeo's studies about Juliet and his desire for her.

This line is significant because it shows how Romeo's passion with Juliet and his amenability to express his  heartstrings for her in lyrical language.

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the fact that there was a rivalry between the two households and that they always had competition

The themes present in Romeo and Juliet are A. Love conquers all, C. inevitability of fate, D. struggle of individual against society, E. forcefulness of love, and F. importance of family loyalty. Money as the root of all evil is not focused in the play. The given examples demonstrate how these themes are reflected in the story.

The possible themes of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare that you could choose from here are A. Love conquers all, C. the inevitability of fate, D. the struggle of the individual in the face of a more powerful society, E. the forcefulness of love, and F. the importance of family loyalty. All these themes are reflected in the story of Romeo and Juliet, but B. Money is the root of all evil is not a primary theme and it is not much focused on in this play.

For example, 'Love conquers all' and 'the forcefulness of love' are seen through Romeo and Juliet's intense love for each other that they choose each other over their families and other obligations. 'The inevitability of fate' is another major theme as the play repeatedly mentions that Romeo and Juliet are destined to die.

The 'struggle of the individual against a more powerful society' is demonstrated by Romeo and Juliet's futile attempts to reconcile their love with the expectations of their feuding families. Lastly, 'the importance of family loyalty' is explored through the Capulet's and Montague's blinding obligation towards family honor which ultimately leads to their children's demise.

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Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet draws on the Roman myth of Pyramus and Thisbe by incorporating similar overarching themes like forbidden love and tragic consequences, rather than directly borrowing characters, plot or setting.

Shakespeare applies the Roman myth Pyramus and Thisbe in his work, Romeo and Juliet, most significantly through the exploration of themes of forbidden love and tragic consequences, similar to those in the myth. This embodiment of ancient narrative helps to give the play its timeless, universal appeal. However, while the themes echo Pyramus and Thisbe, the characters and plot structure are largely Shakespeare's own invention and the setting, contrary to the myth, is Verona, not ancient Rome. The play doesn't ignore the Roman myth but rather, interweaves similar experiences, maintaining originality of the script and characters.

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The aim of an argumentative essay is to persuade the audience to agree with your viewpoint. This is achieved through presenting a clear and well-supported argument using strategies such as analogies and emotional appeals.

The purpose of your argumentative essay is to B. Persuade the audience to have the same opinion on the topic. In an argumentative essay, you position arguments, provide reasoning and evidence to support your viewpoint with the goal of persuading your audience to agree with your stance. For instance, you may use strategies such as analogy to make your point clearer to your audience that may include your instructor, classmates, or a wider set of readers.

Additionally, in persuasive writing, your thesis statement plays a crucial role in revealing your purpose. It defines your position and gives reasons for it, aiming to convince your audience of the validity of your argument. Besides, while structuring your project, identifying your purpose and goal can help you decide on your approach and make your claim or assertion clear.

To make your persuasive appeal stronger, you may employ emotional appeals, making your audience feel certain emotions - like sympathy, anger, fear, etc. - to support your position.

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Word choice in an argumentative essay should be formal and precise.

In an argumentative essay, word choice should be formal and precise . This means using language that is appropriate for academic writing and being clear and concise in your statements. Being formal in your word choice helps to establish credibility and professionalism in your essay.

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When considering whether or not students should attend college at a younger age, it is essential to evaluate individual readiness and circumstances. Some students may benefit from starting their careers earlier, while others may struggle academically or emotionally. The decision should be based on an individual student's maturity and preparedness.

When weighing the claim of whether or not students should attend college at a younger age, it is important to consider various factors. While some students may be academically and emotionally prepared for college at a younger age, others may not be ready yet. One argument in favor of students attending college at a younger age is that they can start their career earlier and potentially have more opportunities in the future. For example, a student who graduates from college at the age of 20 can start working and gaining experience while their peers are still studying. This can give them a head start in their chosen field.

On the other hand, certain students may not be academically or emotionally mature enough for college at a younger age. College requires a certain level of independence, time management skills, and critical thinking abilities. If a student is not ready in these aspects, they may struggle academically or have difficulty adjusting to the college environment. It is important to consider each student individually and assess their readiness for college.

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether or not students should attend college at a younger age. It depends on the individual student and their level of readiness. Some students may thrive in college at a younger age, while others may need more time to develop the necessary skills and maturity. Overall, it is important to consider the specific circumstances and capabilities of each student when making a decision about college attendance.

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Romeo and Juliet

By william shakespeare, romeo and juliet essay questions.

In what way do Romeo and Juliet break gender conventions? How do these roles fluctuate throughout the play?

At the beginning of the play, the young lovers' behavior reverses common gender conventions – Romeo acts in a way that his friends call feminine, while Juliet exhibits masculine qualities. Romeo is by no means an archetypal Elizabethan man; he is disinterested in asserting his physical power like the other male characters in the play. Instead, Romeo chooses to stew in his pensive melancholy. On several instances, Romeo's companions suggest that his introspective behavior is effeminate. On the other hand, Juliet exhibits a more pronounced sense of agency than most female characters in Shakespeare's time. While the women around her, like her mother, blindly act in accordance with Lord Capulet's wishes, Juliet proudly expresses her opinion. Even when she has lost a battle (like when Lord Capulet insists she consider marrying Paris), she demonstrates a shrewd ability to deflect attention without committing to anything. In her relationship with Romeo, Juliet clearly takes the lead by insisting on marriage and proposing the plan to unite them. As the play progresses, Romeo starts to break out of his pensive inaction to the point that Mercutio notices this change. Romeo also makes a great shift from his cowardly attempt at suicide in Act III to his willful decision in Act V. Overall, Romeo and Juliet are arguably a good match because they are so distinct. Juliet is headstrong, while Romeo is passive until passion strikes and inspires him to action.

Contrast Romeo's attempted suicide in Act 3 with his actual suicide in Act 5. How do these two events reveal changes in his character and an evolving view of death?

Romeo considers suicide in both Act 3 and Act 5. In Act 3, Romeo's desire to take his own life is a cowardly response to his grief over killing Tybalt. He is afraid of the consequences of his actions and would rather escape the world entirely than face losing Juliet. Both Friar Laurence and the Nurse criticize Romeo for his weakness and lack of responsibility - taking the knife from his hands. In contrast, Romeo actually does commit suicide in Act V because he sees no other option. He plans for it, seeking out the Apothecary before leaving Mantua, and kills himself out of solidarity with Juliet, not because he is afraid. While suicide is hardly a defensible action, Romeo's dual attempts to take his life reveal his growing maturity and his strengthened moral resolve.

Several characters criticize Romeo for falling in love too quickly. Do you believe this is true? Does his tendency towards infatuation give the audience occasion to question Romeo's affection for Juliet?

This question obviously asks for a student opinion, but there is evidence to support both sides of the argument. In Act 2, Friar Laurence states his opinion that Romeo does indeed fall in love too quickly. Romeo is arguably in love with being in love more than he is in love with any particular woman. The speed with which his affections shift from Rosaline to Juliet – all before he ever exchanges a word with the latter – suggests that Romeo's feelings of 'love' are closer to lust than commitment. This interpretation is supported by the numerous sexual references in the play, which are even interwoven with religious imagery in Romeo and Juliet's first conversation. However, it also possible to argue that Romeo's lust does not invalidate the purity of his love. Romeo and Juliet celebrates young, passionate love, which includes physical lust. Furthermore, whereas Romeo was content to pine for Rosaline from afar, his love for Juliet forces him to spring into action. He is melancholy over Rosaline, but he is willing to die for Juliet. Therefore, a possible reading is that Romeo and Juliet's relationship might have been sparked by physical attraction, but it grew into a deep, spiritual connection.

Examine the contrast between order and disorder in Romeo and Juliet . How does Shakespeare express this dichotomy through symbols, and how do those motifs help to underline the other major themes in the play?

The contrast between order and disorder appears from the Prologue, where the Chorus tells a tragic story using the ordered sonnet form. From that point onwards, the separation between order and disorder is a common theme. Ironically, violence and disorder occurs in bright daylight, while the serenity of love emerges at night. The relationship between Romeo and Juliet is uncomplicated without the disorderly feud between their families, which has taken over the streets of Verona. The contrast between order and disorder underscores the way that Shakespeare presents love - a safe cocoon in which the lovers can separate themselves from the unpredictable world around them. At the end of the play, it becomes clear that a relationship based on pure love cannot co-exist with human weaknesses like greed and jealousy.

Many critics note a tonal inconsistency in Romeo and Juliet . Do you find the shift in tone that occurs after Mercutio's death to be problematic? Does this shift correspond to an established structural tradition or is it simply one of Shakespeare's whims?

After the Prologue until the point where Mercutio dies in Act III, Romeo and Juliet is mostly a comic romance. After Mercutio dies, the nature of the play suddenly shifts into tragedy. It is possible that this extreme shift is merely the product of Shakespeare's whims, especially because the play has many other asides that are uncharacteristic of either comedy or tragedy. For example, Mercutio's Queen Mab speech is dreamy and poetic, while the Nurse's colorful personality gives her more dimension than functional characters generally require. However, it is also possible to see the parallels between this tonal shift and the play's thematic contrast between order and disorder. Shakespeare frequently explored the human potential for both comedy and tragedy in his plays, and it is possible that in Romeo and Juliet , he wanted to explore the transition from youthful whimsy into the complications of adulthood. From this perspective, the play's unusual structure could represent a journey to maturity. Romeo grows from a petulant teenager who believes he can ignore the world around him to a man who accepts the fact that his actions have consequences.

Eminent literary critic Harold Bloom considers Mercutio to be one of Shakespeare's greatest inventions in Romeo and Juliet . Why do you agree or disagree with him? What sets Mercutio apart?

One of Shakespeare's great dramatic talents is his ability to portray functional characters as multi-faceted individuals. Mercutio, for example, could have served a simple dramatic function, helping the audience get to know Romeo in the early acts. Then, his death in Act 3 is a crucial plot point in the play, heightening the stakes and forcing Romeo to make a life-changing decision. Mercutio barely appears in Arthur Brooke's Romeus and Juliet , which Romeo and Juliet is based on. Therefore, Shakespeare made a point of fleshing out the character. In Mercutio's Queen Mab speech, Shakespeare has the opportunity to truly delve into the bizarre and often dangerous sexual nature of love. Further, Mercutio's insight as he dies truly expresses the horrors of revenge, as he declares a plague on both the Montague and Capulet families. He is the first casualty of their feud - and because he transcends functionality, the audience mourns his untimely death and can relate to Romeo's capricious revenge.

How does Shakespeare use symbols of gold and silver throughout the play? What does each element represent?

Shakespeare uses gold and silver as symbols to criticize human folly. He often invokes the image of silver to symbolize pure love and innocent beauty. On the other hand, he uses gold as a sign of greed or desire. For example, Shakespeare describes Rosaline as immune to showers of gold, an image that symbolizes the selfishness of bribery. Later, when Romeo is banished, he comments that banishment is a "golden axe," meaning that banishment is merely a shiny euphemism for death. Finally, the erection of the golden statues at the end of the play is a sign of the fact that neither Lord Capulet nor Lord Montague has really learned anything from the loss of their children. They are still competing to claim the higher level of grief. Romeo, however, recognizes the power of gold and rejects it - through him, Shakespeare suggests a distinction between a world governed by wealth and the cocoon of true love.

Do a character analysis of Friar Laurence. What motivates him? In what ways does this motivation complicate his character?

Friar Laurence is yet another character who transcends his functional purpose. When Romeo first approaches the Friar to plan his marriage to Juliet, the older man questions the young man's sincerity, since Romeo openly pined for Rosaline only a few days before. However, the Friar shows a willingness to compromise by agreeing to marry the young lovers nevertheless. What ultimately motivates Friar Laurence is his desire to end the feud between the Capulets and the Montagues, and he sees Romeo and Juliet's marriage as a means to that end. While his peaceful intentions are admirable, his devious actions to achieve them – conducting a marriage that he explicitly questions – suggests he is more driven by politics than by an internal moral compass. The fact that a religious figure would compromise one of the Church's sacraments (marriage) further suggests that the Friar wants his power to extend beyond the confines of his Chapel. He also displays his hubris by helping Juliet to fake her death, rather than simply helping her get to Mantua to be with Romeo. While Friar Laurence is not an explicit villain, his internal contradictions speak to Shakespeare's ability to create multi-faceted characters.

Should Romeo and Juliet be considered a classical tragedy (in which fate destroys individuals)? Or is it more a tragedy of circumstance and personality? Moreover, could the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet have been avoided?

In classical tragedy, an individual is defeated by Fate, despite his or her best efforts to change a pre-determined course of events. A classical tragedy both celebrates an individual's willpower while lamenting the fact that the universe cannot be bested by mankind. The tragic elements in Romeo and Juliet are undeniable - two young lovers want nothing more than to be together and fall victim to an ancient feud and rigid societal conventions. However, while Romeo and Juliet's deaths result from human folly, the immovable power of fate also has a hand in sealing their destinies. For instance, Romeo and Juliet had many opportunities to simply run away together instead of being separated after Romeo is banished from Verona. Furthermore, many of the tragic occurrences are contingent on antagonistic characters running into one another, and then choosing to pursue vengeance rather than simply walk away. Based on this evidence, it is possible to read Shakespeare's intent as suggesting that behavioral adjustment can often prevent tragic events.

How is Romeo and Juliet a criticism of organized religion? Examine the play's secularism to develop your answer.

While Romeo and Juliet does not present explicit attacks against religion, Shakespeare reveals his skepticism of Christianity in subtle ways. In many ways, Romeo and Juliet must reject the tenets of Christianity in order to be together. In their first meeting, they banter, using religious imagery to share their sexual feelings. In this exchange, the lovers acknowledge the omnipresence of Christianity, but cheekily use religious images in an unexpected context. Further, Christian tradition would have required Juliet to submit to her father's desire, but instead, she manipulates his expectations to distract him from her real agenda. Even Friar Laurence, an explicitly religious figure, uses Christianity as a tool towards his own ends. In this way, the play implicitly suggests that the rigid rules of religion often work in opposition to the desires of the heart - and to pursue true happiness, one must throw off the shackles of organized faith.

Romeo and Juliet Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Romeo and Juliet is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Can you find verbal irony in the play? Where?

One example of verbal irony would be Romeo's reference to the poison he has purchased as a "sweet medicine". A cordial is a sweet liquor or medicine.

Come, cordial and not poison, go with me To Juliet's grave; for there must I use thee.

What do we learn about Mercutio in queen man speech?

The whole speech is based on pagan Celtic mythology. Mercutio’s speech is laced with sexual innuendo. The words “queen” and “mab” refer to whores in Elizabethan England. As his speech goes on we notice the subtext get increasingly sexual...

What does Romeo fear as he approaches Capulet house? What literary device would this be an example of?

Romeo feels something bad is going to happen.

I fear too early, for my mind misgives Some consequence yet hanging in the stars

Looks like foreshadowing to me!

Study Guide for Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet study guide contains a biography of William Shakespeare, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Romeo and Juliet
• Romeo and Juliet Summary
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• Character List

Essays for Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.

• Unity in Shakespeare's Tragedies
• Fate in Romeo and Juliet
• Romeo and Juliet: Under the Guise of Love
• The Apothecary's Greater Significance in Romeo and Juliet
• Romeo and Juliet: Two Worlds

Lesson Plan for Romeo and Juliet

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to Romeo and Juliet
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• Romeo and Juliet Bibliography

E-Text of Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet e-text contains the full text of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.

• List of Characters

Wikipedia Entries for Romeo and Juliet

• Introduction

Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Romeo and Juliet — Literary Analysis Of Romeo And Juliet

Literary Analysis of Romeo and Juliet

• Categories: Romeo and Juliet

About this sample

Words: 697 |

Published: Mar 13, 2024

Words: 697 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

The theme of love is central to romeo and juliet, and it is expressed in various forms throughout the play., the character of romeo embodies the impulsive and passionate nature of love, as he falls deeply in love with juliet after only a brief encounter., shakespeare employs a variety of literary devices to convey the complexities of love and fate in romeo and juliet., as the play reaches its tragic conclusion, the themes of love and fate converge in a devastating climax., in conclusion, romeo and juliet remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today..

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