Violence and conflict Flashcards
“From ancient grudge break new mutiny”-Prologue
The prologue introduces the theme of conflict and Shakespeare juxtaposes violent imagery with the adoption of the sonnet form to introduce that the key themes of love and hate are equally as powerful. Complexity of conflict as it has been going on for so long. Shakespeare contrasts the blossoming romance between R+J through love and conflict.
“As I hate hell, all Montagues and thee.” - Tybalt Act 1 scene 1
Shakespeare starts the play with a conflict which exemplifies how integral it is to the play. setting the play up with a conflict demonstrates that conflict is inescapable as it is fate. Tone starts out comical then shifts to serious. Honourable man is ready to defend honour by spilling blood.
The Prices speech in act 1 scene 1
“your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace”- foreshadowing deaths in the play which causes more conflict. The Prince has a high status which shows that he is in control. Shakespeare uses the Princes monologue as a deterrence to the 2 families.
“mad blood stirring”- Benvolio act 3 scene 1
this scene juxtaposes the previous where R+J get married.
violence can be seen as a manifestation of conflict. Creates tension and pace foreshadowing violence to come. Heat and blood-violence and passion.
“A plague of both your houses”- Mercutio act 3 scene 1
Repetition emphasises that Montagues and Capulets are both responsible for the conflict. Connotations of plague. He is saying it like a curse. This scene acts as a catalyst
“Hang thee, young baggage! disobedient wretch! My fingers itch.”- Lord Capulet act 3 scene 5
Speaking as if she were an object enforces the patriarchy. He is dehumanising her. He wants to keep the families honour by having his daughter marry a noble man. The violent words illustrate the complete disregard that Lord Capulet has for Juliet if she does not do as he says. He wants to become violent and hit her.
“Villain is a guest”- Tybalt act 1 scene 5
Tybalt is a hot headed and loyal Capulet who believes it is his right to protect his family from the Montagues. Lord Capulet replies to this with “Am i the master here, or you?”- the rhetorical question reaffirms Lord Capulets authority whilst at the same time discrediting any authority Tybalt thought he had.
“saucy boy”- Lord Capulet act 1 scene 5
Lord Capulet is patronising and belittling Tybalt. Saucy- silly and likes to cause trouble inferring that he is childish.
