Period 6/Pre-AP Eng 9
March 14, 2012
SPOTD Analysis: Romeo and Juliet Rash actions lead to dire consequences when the actions of others are not accounted for. In William Shakespeare’s drama, The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, the young lovers Romeo and Juliet are depicted to be causing havoc due to them acting rashly. The theme of acting rashly is revealed through Shakespeare’s incorporation of both tone and syntax. The theme of acting rashly is represented within Juliet’s tone during her soliloquy. For instance, Juliet articulates, “Farewell! God knows when we shall meet again/ I have a faint cold fear thrills through my veins” (IV.iii.14-15). This quote exhibits the theme of acting rashly by showing Juliet, reflecting upon the magnitude of her situation, with a lamentable tone. This lamentable tone shows the audience that Juliet is acting rashly and acknowledges that fact. Because Shakespeare used a lamenting tone in the character of Juliet, the audience discovers that she acknowledges her own rash actions. The syntax of the drama reveals the theme of acting rashly. For example, Juliet states, “What if this mixture do not work at all?/ Shall I be married then tomorrow morning” (IV.iii.21-22). This quote depicts Juliet asking rhetorical questions to herself and the audience, revealing her inhibitions relating to her rash actions. By using short, simplistic interrogative sentences, Shakespeare articulates the rashness of her actions to the audience. In summation, through the utilization of simple, effective questions, the audience understands the repercussions of Juliet’s rash actions on an entirely new level. In finality, the consequences of Juliet acting rashly are magnified with every bad decision. Through the incorporation of a lamenting tone and short, simplistic questions, the theme is easily conveyed to the audience. The theme of acting rashly is one that Juliet analyzes in her soliloquy, as she goes so far as to question her