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Violence and conflict are central to Romeo &amp; Juliet: discuss this theme with reference to at least three scenes.

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Pre-1914 Drama coursework for English and literature Romeo and Juliet Violence and conflict are central to Romeo & Juliet: discuss this theme with reference to at least three scenes. In Romeo and Juliet I will be focusing on act 1 scene 1, act 3 scene 1 and act 3 scene 5. I will discuss and explain how they fit into the play as a whole. I will show how violence, conflict and love are all important factors in these scenes. During the time that Shakespeare wrote Romeo and Juliet, there were always two or three plays on in London along the south bank. Typically theatres would run plays at the same time, 'competing with each other, and those which play best obtained most spectators,' as was Thomas Platter's experience when going to watch one of Shakespeare's plays. The playhouses were so constructed that the stage was on a raised platform so everyone had a good view. Standing cost a penny to watch but seating was more comfortable and better viewing which made it more expensive. Also during the play someone would bring round refreshments which you could purchase. ...read more.


Tybalt says to Romeo 'That thou hast done me; therefore turn and draw' showing he's prepared to fight Romeo. Romeo replies saying 'I do protest I never injured thee.' Showing he doesn't want to fight. Also he says 'And so, good Capulet, which name I tender As dearly as my own be satisfied.' This is reminding the audience that Romeo is now related to Tybalt. The audience is in a privileged position in this scene because they are aware of the reason for Romeo's refusal to fight, which more of the characters on stage understand. Romeo's friends are upset because Tybalt is their rival and Romeo is just backing away. This is an example of dramatic irony, which keeps the audience interested and involved in the playas they wait to find out what happens next. Mercutio fights on behalf of Romeo because he does not want to see Romeo dishonoured. Mercutio states 'O calm, dishonourable, vile submission! 'Alla stoccata' carries it away. [He draws.]' This shows he is going to fight for Romeo. Mercutio is killed when Romeo tried to intervene. This is significant because it's the turning point in the scene and it's the point where Romeo begins be drawn into the conflict and violence in the play. ...read more.


desperate not to marry Paris and be with Romeo that she goes to the friar for help to drink a sleeping potion then be with Romeo when she reawakens without anyone knowing. She says 'I'll to the friar to know his remedy. If all else fail, myself have power to die' shows us she is prepared to kill herself rather than be forced into a second marriage. Shakespeare again uses dramatic irony as the audience knows the characters reason's for not marrying whereas the other character doesn't. The violence and conflict in this scene is different to the other two I have mentioned. This is because there is a threat of violence. I agree that violence and conflict are central to the play but love is also central to the play as well. My overall impression of the play is one that can be enjoyable but boring at other times because it isn't modern but it does show different emotions as well. Also my favourite scene in the play is Act 3 Scene 1 as it shows different emotions well and is heavily linked with the essay title and also has a dramatic effect on the audience. ?? ?? ?? ?? Thomas Marshall 1 ...read more.

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