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Who To Blame In Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet

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Romeo and Juliet, one of Shakespeare’s most notable works in history, depicts an infamous love story that ended in tragedy - specifically, with both of them committing suicide. When their bodies were discovered, several questions arose. Who was to blame for this tragedy? Or, was there really anyone to blame? The Prince, appalled by what had happened, had this to say: “Some shall be pardoned, and some punished” (Romeo and Juliet. 5.3.322). Although it is not directly said who he is referring to, the events throughout the play paint a clear picture of whom he holds accountable and why. This includes the Capulet’s and Montague’s endless feud, the Friar’s plan, and his own hesitation to act.
Although there are several people that were responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet, two that stand out were the Capulets and the Montagues -notably, their hatred towards one another. Their feud, one that lasted throughout …show more content…
He wed Romeo and Juliet, despite having knowledge of their families’ endless feud. “Till Holy Church incorporate two in one” (2.6.37). He also devised the plan to help them run away from their parents. His plan was for Juliet to drink a liquid to fake her death, where she would then be put in the Capulet’s tomb. From there, Romeo could pick her up and they could live happily ever after. He was to tell Romeo of his plan in a letter. This is found in these quotes: “Take thou this vial, being then in bed, / And this distilled liquor drink thou off; / When presently through all thy veins shall run/ A cold and drowsy humor; for no pulse” (4.1.95-98) and “In this resolve, I’ll send a friar with speed/ To Mantua, with my letters to thy lord” (4.1.125). When the letter never reached Romeo, he misconstrued Juliet’s “death”, which led to his and Juliet’s tragic demise. Despite the Friar’s major role, there was one unexpected person that contributed to their demise - the

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