The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet
Final Writing Assignment – Argumentative Paper
Due Date: ____________
INTRODUCTION: An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim
with specific evidence. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that your
claim is true based on the evidence you provide to support your side of the argument. Your
argument will include convincing evidence to support your side, but you also will offer
reasonable points to an opposing argument. This is known as a concession.
TASK: Write a 2-4 page essay that is typed, double-spaced, and 12 pt font with 1 inch margins.
In your essay, you are going to argue and prove:
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEATHS OF ROMEO AND JULIET?
To do this, you need to come up with a reasonable person or thing that you think the blame can
be traced back to. If you completed your ballot thoughtfully, you already have the answer to this
very important question. Now you just need to prove it.
You must do some investigating and discover the roots that laid the foundation for them to
commit suicide. Think about what had to happen, what series of events had to take place, in
order for Romeo and Juliet to end their lives. Make a choice. Keep in mind that there are many
different approaches you can take. There is no right or wrong answer here. Rather, there are
well supported arguments and poorly supported arguments. Trace your character’s actions
through the play. Come up with THREE good reasons why the person or thing you pick is to
blame – either character traits, specific actions he/she took, etc. Use quotations from the play
that are relevant and present them in a logical order.
In addition to your main argument, you MUST have a concession in your paper. This is where
you explain that a different person might have played a significant role in the deaths of Romeo
and Juliet. (A concession is a “point” that you let the other side score.) Adding concessions to
your argument usually adds believability to your claims. Concessions use words like even
though, admittedly, while it is true that, some may argue that…; however, this is not the case,
granted, etc.
GRADING:
_____ / 10
_____ / 15
_____ / 20
______ / 10
______ / 10
______ / 5
______ / 70
Thesis Statement: Does your thesis statement answer the question: Who is responsible for
the deaths or Romeo and Juliet? Is it the last sentence in your introductory paragraph?
Organization: Do your body paragraphs have topic sentences that refer back to your
thesis statement? Do your paragraphs make sense? Is your strongest argument in your
final body paragraph?
Specific Evidence: Do your body paragraphs have adequate support from the play? Do
you provide enough details about your choice? Did you use quotations from the play as
support?
Concession: Did you include a concession in the beginning of your paper? Did you give
an opposing view and address why your argument is more logical?
Grammar & Mechanics: Proper spelling and grammar. Do not use “I,” “you,” or “me.”
Followed Directions: Typed, double-spaced, 2-4 pages, 1 inch margins. Give your paper
a title!
TOTAL
Your Name
Class Title: English 9A
Assignment: Romeo and Juliet Paper
Date: November ___, ______
Template: Romeo and Juliet Argumentative Paper (CENTER YOUR TITLE HERE.)
The deaths of Romeo and Juliet in William Shakespeare’s play are both ______________
and _____________. Although much could have been done to prevent their suicides, these “star-crossed
lovers” ultimately are not able to avoid their destiny. A series of unfortunate circumstances result in
disaster, and even though many people could be to blame for their deaths, _________________ plays a
particularly integral role.
While some believe that ______________ is responsible for Romeo and Juliet’s death, this is not
the case. Upon further investigation _____________should receive the blame. Admittedly, __________
has a large influence on Romeo and Juliet’s death because _____________________________________
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But, (your first piece of evidence in support of your argument here) ______________________________
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(Provide support/evidence. Refer back to the play. Why is this person responsible?). ________________
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(Transition into your second piece of evidence here) ____________________________________
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_____________________________________________ (Quotations from the play can really help to
support your argument!) ________________________________________________________________
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Additionally and perhaps most notably, (transition into your third piece of evidence here. This
should be your strongest argument) _______________________________________________________
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(Now, write your concluding paragraph. You should restate your thesis statement here, but do
not repeat it word for word.) _____________________________________________________________
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_______________________________________ (Conclude your paper with a thoughtful but more
general statement about William Shakespeare or his play, Romeo and Juliet.) ______________________
____________________________________________________________________________________.