Question

Write a 5 paragraph argumentitive essay on Romeo & Juliet.

The topic is: As punishment, Romeo is banished from Verona. Is this punishment fair?

Answer 1

The debate over the fairness of Romeo's banishment from Verona in 'Romeo and Juliet' requires analysis of the law, character intentions, and societal context. The argumentative essay should explore if the punishment is just, given the circumstances and consequences of Romeo's actions. The larger themes of the play should also be considered to understand the complexities of justice and punishment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of whether Romeo's banishment from Verona is fair punishment is a complex debate that necessitates an exploration of the themes of justice, the consequences of actions, and the societal norms represented in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In the play, Romeo's exile follows the law of the land, as he is punished for the murder of Tybalt. Yet, some may argue that this punishment is severe, considering the context of Tybalt’s previous killing of Mercutio and the provocation that led to this tragic outcome.

In crafting an argumentative essay, it is important to establish a clear thesis that discusses the fairness of Romeo’s punishment. The body paragraphs must offer evidence from the text, analyzing Romeo's actions, his intentions, and the expectations of Veronese law. Additionally, the societal context within the play, such as the ongoing feud between the Capulets and Montagues, and its influence on the characters' decisions, should be evaluated to judge the appropriateness of Romeo’s banishment.

The conclusion should synthesize the evidence presented, reasserting the thesis and reflecting on the broader themes of the play. By examining Romeo's banishment within the confines of the play's society and its tragic consequences – Juliet’s subsequent death – one can conclude whether the punishment served justice or merely perpetuated a cycle of violence. Shakespeare’s portrayal of the legal and emotional turmoil surrounding Romeo’s exile allows us to ponder the complexities of justice and punishment in human societies.

Answer 2

Punishment is defined as “the imposition of an undesirable or unpleasant outcome upon a person or group as a response to a particular action or behavior that is deemed undesirable or unacceptable” (Merriam-Webster, 2019). In other words, punishment is a way to enforce negative consequences in order to discourage a certain behavior. Romeo Montague is a perfect example of someone who has faced punishment as a result of his actions. After Romeo killed Tybalt in a duel, he was banished from Verona by Prince Escalus. This punishment seems fair at first glance, but upon further examination, it is clear that Romeo did not deserve to be banished and that this punishment is too harsh.

There are a few reasons why Romeo’s punishment is too harsh. First, Romeo was not the only one at fault in the situation that led to Tybalt’s death. Tybalt was the one who started the fight by provoking Romeo and then attacking him. If anyone deserves to be punished, it is Tybalt, not Romeo. Second, Romeo was only trying to defend himself when he killed Tybalt. He did not set out to kill Tybalt, but Tybalt’s attack left him with no other choice. Third, Romeo’s punishment is out of proportion to his crime. He killed Tybalt in self-defense, yet he is being banished from Verona while Tybalt’s body is allowed to remain in the city. This doesn’t seem fair.

Romeo’s punishment is too harsh because he was not the only one at fault, he was only defending himself, and his punishment is out of proportion to his crime. Prince Escalus should have taken these factors into consideration before issuing such a harsh punishment.