Shakespearean Tragedy: Romeo and Juliet and Julius Caesar
You will be given TWO class periods (if more time is NECESSARY, then we
will discuss at the time) to write ONE essay on Romeo and Juliet and ONE
essay on Julius Caesar. How you divide that time is up to you. Each essay
will be worth 50 points for a total of 100 points. Your essay must include a
valid thesis statement and direct quotes from each of the plays to support
you claim.
Please choose ONE of the following Romeo and Juliet essay questions.

Mercutio is considered to be one of Shakespeare's great creations, yet he
is killed relatively early in the play. What makes Mercutio so memorable a
character? Speculate as to WHY he would be considered one of Will’s
greatest creations?

Many references are made to time in the play. Discuss the passage of
time throughout Romeo and Juliet and how it is related to the themes and
the tragedy that occurs.
Please choose ONE of the following Julius Caesar essay questions.

Examine the character of Brutus. Is he truly virtuous? What negative
qualities of Brutus cause his own destruction?

Some would say that Julius Caesar is ultimately a play about the tragedy
of lost morality in the political sphere. Would you agree? Are there
modern day examples of this thematic concept? Compare and contrast.