Alexandria Acevedo Prof. James P. Conlan INGL4001 August 28, 2013.

Romeo and Juliet, Plot Analysis In this essay I will discuss the Plot of Romeo and Juliet, from conflict all the way to resolution. But first it is necessary to learn how Shakespeare structured his plays, in order to better comprehend the action that goes on in them. Shakespeares plays are structured as follows: Act I: Inciting Action, Act II: Turning Point, Act III: Climax, Act IV: Falling Action, Act V: Resolution. Even before the Acts begin, in the Prologue, Shakespeare prepares us for a drama in which a pair of star-crossd lovers whose fate is determined by the stars and external consequences instead of by their character. In Act I the feud between the two families is first presented through the servants of Capulets and Montagues. While the brawl is still underway Benvolio, a Montague, shows up and attempts to stop the fight while Tybalt, a Capulet, arrives on the scene. Prince Escalus arrives at the scene and declares that the penalty for any individual of the family who disturbs Verona in the future will be death. Here we see the first warning or preparation for the tragic climax of the play. In Act I scene IV we also see a foreboding of the control fate has over these star crossed lovers as Romeo says: I fear, too early: for my mind misgives some consequence yet hanging in the stars shall bitterly begin his fearful date with this night's revels and expire the term of a despised life closed in my breast by some vile forfeit of untimely death. But He, that hath the steerage of my course, direct my sail! On, lusty gentlemen. The line "yet hanging in the stars" is yet another reference to Shakespeare's on-going theme of fate.

In Act II the rising action commences as Romeo catches sight of Juliet and is immediately smitten. Tybalt, recognizes his voice during the feast and becomes furious because of his presence and is determined to punish him for this act. (This is also a hint to the troubles that ensue for these lovers). After the famous balcony scene in which Romeo inadvertedly hears the inner most private thoughts of his love, comes the Friars soliloquy that clearly reflects the doom and pain that Romeo and Juliet will suffer. Also, in this scene it is mentioned that he has a knowledge of herbs that will prove to be a key element in the plays outcome. Also in this Act the lovers marry, but even during this joyous occasion there is warning These violent delights have violent ends And in their triumph die. Act III is the Climax, the act begins by returning the focus to Mercutio, Benvolio and the other men. Again it is hinted that something is about to occur when it is mentioned that the day is hotter than usual and this causes people to anger more quickly. Tybalt, still angered because of Romeos presence at the feast seeks him out but instead finds Mercutio. Tybalt insults Romeo, who, since is now married to a Capulet resists fighting but in doing so angers Mercutio who decides to fight him. Tybalt kills Mercutio, and, in doing so, angers Romeo who in turn seeks him out and kills him causing the Prince to banish him or be executed. Romeo in his despair goes to Friar Laurence and attempts to stab himself with a knife (theme of suicide is presented) . Juliet is in complete despair as Capulet has decided she will marry Paris. Act IV is the falling action. The Friar suggests Juliet taking a drug that will make her seem dead in order for her to be able to run away with Romeo. As the act progresses we see Juliet feigning eagerness at the prospect of marrying Paris, all the while knowing that she will appear dead for 48 hours and will escape his clutches.

In Act IV we see another hint at bad news to come through Romeos dream. Romeo is then informed of Juliets apparent death and seems to believe it. It is here we realize that the Friars plan is flawed since Romeo truly seems to believe that his lover has succumbed to the clutches of death. In his despair Romeo purchases a deadly drug that will kill him instantly and sets out to see with his own eyes if the news are true. Here we see some hope that the play will not have a tragic end after all, since Romeo does not immediately consume de venom. It is then explained that a crucial part of the plan is that Romeo receive a letter which explains the whole endeavor. In Act V Romeo arrives at Juliets tomb only to find Paris. They fight, Romeo kill s Paris. As this fight is developing we know that the Friar is rushing to the tomb, and, if he makes it in time, could save both lovers. They fight ends with the death of Paris and the Friar still has not arrived. Romeo then sees Juliet, assumes she is dead and drinks the poison, killing himself instantly. Shortly after the Friar arrives, sees the scene and flees. Juliet awakens to find her lover dead at her feet and proceeds to stab herself. Montague, Capulet, and the Prince arrive. The Friar explains everything that has happened. After seeing how much pain their feud has created Montague and Capulet finally decide to end the war between their houses.
References:

Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Ed. Henry Norman Hudson. New York: Ginn and Co., 1916. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2009.(27 Aug. 2013) < http://www.shakespeare-online.com/plays/juliuscaesar/juliushudson.html >.