Journal #6

Romeo needed to hear Juliet proclaim his love for her essentially because of his past experiences and because of his insecurities. Romeo was so "in love" with Rosaline but she didn't have mutual feelings for him. He was so affected and saddened, he thought he would never move on. This feeling didn't last long considering he saw Juliet and all of his negative thoughts vanished. He fell in love at first sight. I think that Romeo has doubts and fears that Juliet may not feel mutual, just like Rosaline. Also, considering Romeo's irrational and insecure personality, he probably has many berserk thoughts and scenarios going through his head.

The way I read this, Romeo can't believe that things are working out for him and that someone so perfect could possibly love him the way he loves her! He needs reassurance, he wants to be 100% confident that this angel of a girl Juliet, loves him. At this point Romeo has already dedicated his life to Juliet.

If I was in Romeo's situation , I would probably feel the same way. If I were head over heels for someone the way Romeo was, of course I would need to know that they felt the same way. I think that most of it is also because Romeo and Juliet had only known eachother for a very short amount of time before getting married, and perhaps Romeo hadn't heard her say those words yet. I love you was essential for Romeo to hear since they hardly knew eachother, for reassurance, and for confidence.

Journal #7

I think that the responsibility of the death of Romeo and Juliet could be put on several different characters. Friar Lawrence failed to deliver the letter, not to mention he gave Juliet the potion, and married the two. Tybalt would not agree to peace, which ultimately lead to Romeo's banishment. Maybe the fault lies in fate, was it written in the stars that they would end up dead? Or perhaps it was Romeo's fault, being so irrational. It was even quoted in the play, " they stumble that run fast".

Ultimately, I believe that the death of Romeo and Juliet should be put upon the ancient family feud between the Capulet's and Montague's. Most of the turning points in the play are because of this family hatred between the 2 families. Romeo and Juliet would have been supported and happily married, if not for this family feud. None of the tragic events would have taken place.

I think that the play is showing that sometimes for good things to happen, tragic things must happen first. Possibly the only way this feud could end was an event this tragic happen to their loved ones, and for the families to realize it was their fault. Because of this senseless fued, 2 innocent lovers were left dead.

Journal #3

The views on marriage that I have seen so far in the play have been different. Paris and Lady Capulet see marriage as more of a social status and necessity rather than for love. The nurse sees marriage as a way to love, and have children. Capulet is for marriage, but considering Juliet is his only living daughter, he wants to wait until she is older, and more ready. He sees it as a mutual descision between himself and Juliet. At this point Juliet has no desire to marry. She is not in love and feels she is too young.
I agree with Juliets aproach to marriage. These days and to me, one marry's for a life full of love and happiness. I think in order to marry, both parties must agree to marry, and love eachother. In the elizabethan times, women married young and didn't have a say as to who they woulde marry. This approach of marriage to me is absurd, and cruel.
I hope that Lady Capulet and Capulet will understand and do what is best for Juilet.