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Violence In William Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet

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William Shakespeare's tragic play, Romeo and Juliet, explores the conflict between individuals and society. The tale revolves around the forbidden love between two young people from feuding families, Romeo and Juliet. Their passion and desire for each other present them with many issues in their time’s society. Through the characters of Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare delves into the intricacies of the individual's struggle against societal constraints, young love, and how people pursue their happiness.

One of the primary representatives of society in Romeo and Juliet is Prince Escalus, who is the governor of Verona. In Act 1, Scene 1, Prince Escalus expresses his anger with the perpetual street fights between the Montagues and Capulets. He strictly warns the two families that any further violence will be met with severe consequences, saying, "If ever you disturb our streets again, Your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace”. Here, Prince Escalus represents the collective interests of society highlighting peace and order. …show more content…

In Act 3, Scene 1, Tybalt's murder of Romeo's friend, Mercutio, leads to Romeo's banishment. Romeo, driven by his desire for revenge and his love for Juliet, confronts Tybalt, resulting in Tybalt's death. Reflecting on their actions, Romeo rants, "O, I am fortune's fool!”. The violence that pervades the streets of Verona represents the oppressive nature of society and its ability to oppress the fate of individuals, appealing to the group rather than to one

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