Write an argument essay supporting your stance on one of the following debatable topics:
Option 1: As punishment, Romeo is banished from Verona. Is this punishment fair?
Option 2: Romeo and Juliet are referred to as "star-cross'd lovers.” What is most responsible for the outcome of the play: destiny or the characters’ actions?
Option 3: Do their parents have the right to keep Romeo and Juliet apart?
Choose ONE side of the topic to argue. This should be clearly stated in your thesis. Do NOT try to argue both sides.
Introduction
Hook - What interesting fact or statement would make your reader WANT to read the rest of your essay?
Your hook should NOT be in the form of a question.
Background- TAG the play (state the author and play title); give a brief (1-2 sentence) explanation of what the play is about.)
Play titles should be in italics or underlined.
Thesis Statement –State your argument.
Make sure to choose only ONE side of the topic to argue. State all opinions as facts.
Body Paragraphs (CEA method)
Write in complete sentences.
Body Paragraph #1
Claim #1- (One reason that supports your general claim/thesis)
Evidence- (quote or paraphrase from the play. Must include parenthetical citation.)
Analysis- (Explain how your evidence proves the claim?)
Body Paragraph #2
Claim #2- (One reason that supports your general claim/thesis)
Evidence- (quote or paraphrase from the play. Must include parenthetical citation.)
Analysis- (Explain how your evidence proves the claim?)
Body Paragraph #3
Claim #3- (One reason that supports your general claim/thesis)
Evidence- (quote or paraphrase from the play. Must include parenthetical citation.)
Analysis- (Explain how your evidence proves the claim?)
Conclusion
Restate thesis (This means you will say it in a different way)
In conclusion….
Counterclaim- (“Some people think that…..”):
Rebuttal- (“However, they are wrong because….”)
Final Thought- (What do people need to remember?):
.
Introduction
Hook: Did you know that Romeo and Juliet is considered one of the greatest love stories of all time?
Background: William Shakespeare’s *Romeo and Juliet* is a tragic play about two young lovers from feuding families who ultimately meet their demise due to their forbidden love.
Thesis Statement: Romeo and Juliet’s parents have the right to keep them apart.
Body Paragraphs (CEA method)
Body Paragraph #1
Claim #1: The parents have valid reasons for wanting to keep Romeo and Juliet apart, as their families have a long-standing feud.
Evidence: In Act 1, Scene 1, Tybalt states, “What, drawn, and talk of peace? I hate the word...As I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee” (Shakespeare 1.1.68-70).
Analysis: This quote shows Tybalt’s deep-seated hatred for the Montagues, which is indicative of the larger feud between the two families. It is understandable that parents would not want their children involved in such a dangerous situation.
Body Paragraph #2
Claim #2: The parents’ concerns about Romeo and Juliet’s young age and impulsiveness are valid, as evidenced by their rash decisions throughout the play.
Evidence: In Act 2, Scene 2, Juliet declares, “My only love sprung from my only hate! / Too early seen unknown, and known too late!” (Shakespeare 2.2.69-70).
Analysis: Juliet’s realization of falling in love with her family’s enemy highlights the impulsiveness of their love. Parents have a responsibility to protect their children from making hasty decisions that could have serious consequences.
Body Paragraph #3
Claim #3: The parents’ actions to keep Romeo and Juliet apart ultimately lead to a tragic end for the young couple, reinforcing the consequences of their forbidden love.
Evidence: In Act 5, Scene 3, the Prince states, “See what a scourge is laid upon your hate, / That heaven finds means to kill your joys with love!” (Shakespeare 5.3.292-293).
Analysis: The Prince’s words reflect the tragic consequences of the feud between the families and the forbidden love of Romeo and Juliet. While the parents may have had good intentions in trying to keep them apart, their actions ultimately lead to the demise of their own children.
Conclusion
Restate thesis: In conclusion, the parents have the right to keep Romeo and Juliet apart for their own safety and the safety of their families.
Counterclaim: Some may argue that the parents should have allowed Romeo and Juliet to be together and find happiness.
Rebuttal: However, the reality of the feud between their families and the impulsive nature of their love make it reasonable for the parents to want to keep them apart.
Final Thought: It is important to consider the context of the play and the motivations of the characters when analyzing the actions of Romeo and Juliet’s parents in keeping them apart.