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Human Actions in Romeo and Juliet

In the play Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare, a chain of human actions propels two teenagers. Act 4, scenes 1,3 and 5, are a good representation of the web of human actions that caused tragedy for the pair of star crossed lovers (prologue). One example of human actions being dominant in those particular scenes, is Friar Lawrences actions which, while done with good intent, caused much of the pain for the other characters in the book.

His first action was to offer his help to the depressed Juliet, thinking that maybe he could spy a kind of hope (Act 4, sc 1, ll 68). His actions then led him to think of the fake death, which he tells to her. Hold then, go home, be merry (Act 4, sc 1, ll 89), he tells her, while he gives her the poison and plans to give Romeo a message describing the plan. He doesnt, however, make sure Romeo gets the message – which is probably the most crucial human action in the play.

Another example of human action controlling the plot is that of Juliet who, in specific scenes, acts in ways which seriously affect her life and the rest of the play. First, she comes to the friar looking for help. I long to die, if what thou speakst speak not of remedy (Act 4, sc 1, ll 66-67) indicates her attitude towards her situation. She then accepts the friars solution and decides to take the poison. Give me, give me! Oh tell me not of fear (Act 4, sc 1, ll 121) are her words spoken to the friar. Her actions here are brave and she rushes into the plan. The friars actions are mostly suggestions and thoughts, while her actions are the ones that are physical and are actually put into use.

This scene isnt the only scene that demonstrates human actions controlling the play. For example, in the very first scene, Tybalt and Benvolio fight causing a certain amount of tension, setting the play up for some of the major events that happen later. Another example of this is when Romeo and Juliet meet – Romeo goes out of his way to see her again, once more, setting up the plot. The web of human actions becomes larger and stronger until finally, the two main characters lay dead. Lay dead, because the actions they took led them to suicide.

This incident, as tragic as it is, could probably have been avoided. If the actions that were taken by the characters had been planned better and the consequences had been considered, maybe a less tragic outcome would have been ensured. For example, if Friar Lawrence had thought about what would happen if Romeo didnt receive the message in time, he probably would have taken stronger measures to ensure the delivery. Or, maybe, if Romeo had thought twice about killing Tybalt, he would have realized that it couldnt help getting closer to Juliet. Therefore, my advice in this situation would have been to think hard about your actions; dont be caught up in the outcome of them as were Romeo and Juliet.

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