Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet delivers all the passion, tension, and tragedy that it promises in the prologue. After Capulet and Montague end their longstanding feud, the prince requests more discussion about the cause of the tragedy and bloodshed, saying, "Some shall be pardon'd, and some punished." Who do you blame for the death of Romeo? Juliet? Paris? Lady Montague? Tybalt? Mercutio? If you were the prince, which characters would be punished, if any? Which characters would you pardon for their role in the tragedy, and why?

Post your responses to these questions in the discussions area. Your responses should be thought-provoking and include examples from the play to support your position. Then, return to the topic several times over the next few days to read your coursemates' posts. Reply to at least two of them, making sure to ask questions and encourage further conversation. Before you begin the assignment, review the Romeo and Juliet Discussion Rubric to help you complete your assignment and understand how your work will be graded.