How is the theme of conflict explored in Romeo and Juliet?

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How is the theme of conflict explored in Romeo and Juliet?

In 'Romeo and Juliet' there is a lot of emphasis on conflict between the two families, the Montagues and the Capulets. Conflict is used to create tension and harsh, unpleasant words exchanged and threats between enemies. The conflict in Romeo and Juliet is an 'ancient grudge' between the families. Romeo and Juliet are each from different families but still fall in love. The problem is, if any person from the opposite family were to go anywhere near each other, a fight is bound to break out. There are also many other conflicts which ultimately stop Romeo and Juliet form being together. Conflict is a very important issue throughout the play and was the main reason their relationship ended in tragedy.

“From forth the fatal loins of these two foes…A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life. . . .” As a prologue to the play, the Chorus enters. The prologue is written as a sonnet, describing two households in the city of Verona. The houses hold an “ancient grudge” against each other that continues as the source of violent conflict. The chorus says that from these houses, two “star-crossed” lovers will appear. The lovers will stop the fight between the families by dying. The story will follow the two lovers, and the tragic conflict between their families.

The opening by the Chorus acts as an introduction. We are given information about where the play takes place, and given some background information about its main characters. The Prologue doesn’t only set the scene of Romeo and Juliet, but tells the audience exactly what is going to happen. The lines “star-crossed” and fated to “take their lives” informs the audience that the lovers are destined to die. Romeo’s remark “O, I am fortune’s fool!” shows the fact that he sees himself as subject to fate. When he cries out “Then I defy you, stars,” after learning of Juliet’s death, disagreeing with to destiny that hurts him. In “defying” fate he brings it around. Romeo’s suicide prompts Juliet’s suicide, ironically fulfilling the tragic destiny.

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In Act I, scene I, Sampson and Gregory, servants of the Capulet household, walk through Verona square as they mock the house of Montague. They share sexual remarks known as puns. Speaking of physically winning the men and sexually winning the women. They refer to the Montagues as “dogs“, giving the sense that the Montagues are below the them and less respected. The source of the fight, with sexual and physical conflict, introduces the theme of masculine honour. A man must defend his honour. The concept of masculine honour exists through every layer of society in Verona.

Gregory ...

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