This guide explores Act 2’s pivotal events‚ including the balcony scene‚ secret marriage‚ and escalating tensions. It examines themes of love vs. fate‚ character growth‚ and tragic foresights‚ preparing students for deeper analysis.
Act 2 of Romeo and Juliet is a turning point in the play‚ marked by the deepening of Romeo and Juliet’s love and the escalation of familial tensions. The act opens with Romeo sneaking into the Capulet orchard‚ where he declares his love to Juliet in the iconic balcony scene. Their passion leads to a secret marriage officiated by Friar Laurence‚ who hopes to end the feud between their families. Meanwhile‚ Tybalt’s anger toward Romeo intensifies‚ culminating in a deadly duel where Mercutio is killed‚ and Romeo‚ in a rage‚ slays Tybalt. This act of violence results in Romeo’s banishment‚ leaving Juliet isolated and desperate. In response‚ Juliet fakes her own death to avoid marrying Paris‚ setting the stage for the tragic events of Act 3. The act highlights themes of love‚ fate‚ and impulsive decisions‚ foreshadowing the inevitable heartbreak to come.
Key Scenes in Act 2
Act 2 of Romeo and Juliet is filled with pivotal moments that drive the plot forward. The balcony scene (2.2) showcases Romeo and Juliet’s romantic vows‚ solidifying their love despite the familial feud. Friar Laurence’s decision to marry the couple in secret (2.3) highlights his attempt to reconcile the families‚ though it ultimately accelerates the tragedy. Tybalt’s confrontation with Romeo (2.4) and the ensuing duel (2.4) result in Mercutio’s death‚ escalating tensions. Romeo’s impulsive slaying of Tybalt leads to his banishment‚ isolating him from Juliet. Finally‚ Juliet’s desperate plan to fake her death (2.5) to avoid marrying Paris sets the stage for the play’s tragic conclusion. These scenes emphasize the themes of love‚ conflict‚ and fate‚ illustrating how impulsive decisions and unresolved hatred lead to devastating consequences.
Character Development in Act 2
Romeo transitions from an impulsive lover to a determined husband‚ showcasing his commitment to Juliet by defying societal norms. His decision to marry Juliet in secret highlights his maturity‚ though his impulsive nature resurfaces when he kills Tybalt. Juliet evolves from an obedient daughter to an independent thinker‚ willing to risk everything for love. Her defiance of her parents and willingness to fake her death demonstrate her growing assertiveness. Friar Laurence’s role as a mediator deepens‚ as he risks his reputation to unite the lovers‚ revealing his belief in love’s transformative power. Tybalt’s aggression escalates‚ solidifying his role as a antagonist driven by hatred. Mercutio’s death serves as a catalyst for Romeo’s actions‚ emphasizing the consequences of unchecked emotions. Together‚ these developments highlight the characters’ complexities and the tragic inevitability of their choices.
Scene Summaries
Act 2 unfolds with Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage‚ Tybalt’s growing anger‚ and tragic duels. Key scenes include the balcony declaration‚ Mercutio’s death‚ and Juliet’s desperate decision to fake her death;
Act 2‚ Scene 1: The Balcony Scene
Romeo sneaks into the Capulet orchard‚ where he secretly observes Juliet on her balcony. Juliet confesses her love for Romeo‚ unaware he is listening. Romeo reveals himself‚ and they exchange vows of love. Juliet questions how Romeo entered her garden‚ and Romeo replies that love gave him the strength to overcome obstacles. Juliet famously laments the feud between their families‚ declaring‚ “What’s in a name?” They agree to marry‚ and Romeo promises to arrange the ceremony with Friar Laurence. The scene is rich in romantic imagery‚ with Romeo comparing Juliet to the sun and both expressing their deep longing for each other. This iconic moment highlights their impulsive yet sincere love‚ setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.
Act 2‚ Scene 2: The Marriage of Romeo and Juliet
Romeo visits Friar Laurence‚ seeking his help to marry Juliet in secret. Friar Laurence agrees‚ hoping the union will end the feud between their families. Juliet sends a messenger to confirm her commitment‚ and Romeo makes arrangements for the ceremony. The scene shifts to Juliet’s chamber‚ where she anxiously awaits news from Romeo. When the Nurse arrives with details of the plan‚ Juliet’s excitement is palpable. Friar Laurence performs the private ceremony‚ and the young lovers exchange vows‚ believing their love will overcome all obstacles. This scene underscores the themes of hope and secrecy‚ as the characters navigate the risks of their forbidden relationship. The marriage marks a turning point‚ intensifying the emotional stakes and setting the stage for impending tragedy.
Act 2‚ Scene 3: Tybalt’s Anger
Tybalt‚ Juliet’s cousin‚ discovers Romeo’s presence at the Capulet ball and is furious. He vows to confront Romeo‚ seeing his actions as a direct insult to the Capulet family. Tybalt’s anger stems from a deep-seated hatred for the Montagues and a strong sense of loyalty to his family. In this scene‚ Tybalt’s aggressive and impulsive nature is on full display. He sends a letter to Romeo‚ challenging him to a duel‚ and speaks bitterly about Romeo’s intrusion. Tybalt’s rage not only escalates the conflict between the families but also highlights his character as a man driven by pride and violence. The tension created by Tybalt’s anger sets the stage for tragic events‚ as his hatred for Romeo will ultimately lead to devastating consequences. This scene underscores the destructive power of unchecked emotions and the cyclical nature of the feud.
Act 2‚ Scene 4: The Duel
In Act 2‚ Scene 4‚ the tension between Tybalt and Romeo reaches a boiling point. Tybalt‚ determined to uphold his family’s honor‚ challenges Romeo to a duel. Despite Romeo’s reluctance‚ he agrees to fight‚ driven by his loyalty to Mercutio‚ who steps in on his behalf. The duel is intense and tragic‚ resulting in Mercutio’s death. Romeo‚ filled with grief and anger‚ kills Tybalt in revenge. This scene marks a turning point in the play‚ as the conflict escalates and the characters’ fates become more intertwined. The duel highlights the destructive nature of the feud between the Montagues and Capulets‚ as well as the impulsive decisions made by the characters. The aftermath of this scene sets the stage for further tragedy‚ as Romeo faces banishment and the families’ hatred grows deeper. The emotional weight of this moment underscores the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and loyalty.
Act 2‚ Scene 5: Juliet’s Decision
In Act 2‚ Scene 5‚ Juliet learns of her parents’ plan to marry her to Paris‚ which fills her with distress. She confides in her nurse‚ who initially seems to support Romeo but later suggests Juliet could marry Paris alongside loving Romeo. Disheartened‚ Juliet decides to seek help from Friar Laurence‚ resolving to take drastic action. She vows to risk her life rather than marry another man‚ showcasing her determination and courage. This scene highlights Juliet’s growing independence and willingness to challenge societal expectations. Her decision to trust Friar Laurence and pursue a potentially dangerous plan underscores her deep love for Romeo and her desperation to avoid a loveless marriage. The tension builds as Juliet prepares to face the consequences of her choices‚ setting the stage for further conflict and emotional turmoil in the play.
Act 2‚ Scene 6: The Aftermath
Act 2‚ Scene 6 focuses on the emotional and relational consequences following Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage. Friar Laurence‚ having officiated the union‚ expresses cautious optimism about their future‚ yet also warns Romeo of potential dangers. Meanwhile‚ the newlyweds are blissful but aware of the challenges ahead. This scene emphasizes the friar’s role as a mediator and his belief that the union could eventually bring peace between the feuding families. However‚ the overall tone remains subdued‚ as the reality of their situation and the societal obstacles they face loom large. The scene concludes with a sense of foreboding‚ hinting at the tragic events that will unfold. It serves as a bridge between the hope of their love and the inevitable conflicts that their families’ hatred will provoke‚ deepening the audience’s awareness of the impending doom.
Character Analysis
Romeo’s passion and impulsiveness deepen‚ while Juliet’s maturity and determination shine. Friar Laurence’s cautious optimism contrasts with Tybalt’s escalating anger‚ and Mercutio’s humor highlights the tragic undertones of their intertwined fates.
Romeo’s Transformation in Act 2
Romeo undergoes significant development in Act 2‚ evolving from a lovesick teenager to a determined and passionate lover. His infatuation with Rosaline fades as he falls deeply in love with Juliet‚ showcasing his capacity for genuine emotional depth. Romeo’s bravery shines when he risks danger to be near Juliet‚ such as climbing the Capulet orchard wall. His impulsive nature is evident in his quick decision to marry Juliet‚ highlighting his romantic idealism. Friar Laurence’s influence further solidifies Romeo’s resolve‚ as he seeks a legitimate union with Juliet. Romeo’s transformation is marked by his willingness to defy societal norms and family feuds for love‚ demonstrating a shift from passive longing to proactive pursuit of his heart’s desire. This change underscores the tragic inevitability of the play‚ as Romeo’s passionate decisions set the stage for future conflicts and ultimate heartbreak.
Juliet’s Growth in Act 2
Juliet’s character undergoes remarkable growth in Act 2‚ transforming from an obedient daughter to a determined and independent individual. Her love for Romeo awakens her maturity‚ as she begins to question her family’s expectations and societal norms. Juliet’s famous balcony soliloquy reveals her deep emotional intelligence and understanding of love’s true nature‚ showcasing her ability to articulate her feelings eloquently. Her decision to marry Romeo‚ despite the families’ feud‚ highlights her courage and willingness to take risks; Juliet’s dialogue with her parents and the Nurse demonstrates her growing assertiveness and ability to think critically. By the end of Act 2‚ Juliet is no longer the naive girl introduced in Act 1; she has become a young woman capable of making life-altering decisions‚ prepared to face the consequences of her choices. This growth sets the stage for her eventual tragic fate‚ emphasizing her strength and determination.
Friar Laurence’s Role in Act 2
Friar Laurence plays a pivotal role in Act 2‚ acting as a mediator and advisor to the young lovers. His belief in destiny and his attempt to unite the feuding families through Romeo and Juliet’s marriage highlight his central influence. The friar’s gathering of herbs and potions illustrates his knowledge of nature and his practical wisdom. When Romeo confides in him about his love for Juliet‚ Friar Laurence agrees to marry them‚ hoping to end the families’ hatred. His decision‚ though well-intentioned‚ carries risks and foreshadows future complications. Friar Laurence also provides guidance to Juliet‚ advising her to remain patient and loyal to Romeo. His words of wisdom and attempts to intervene in the conflict demonstrate his compassionate and thoughtful nature. However‚ his actions also introduce dramatic irony‚ as the audience is aware of the potential consequences of his decisions. Ultimately‚ Friar Laurence’s efforts to help the lovers shape the play’s tragic trajectory.
Tybalt’s Motivations
Tybalt’s actions in Act 2 are driven by a deep-seated hatred for the Montagues and a strong sense of loyalty to his family‚ the Capulets. His pride and adherence to the family feud fuel his aggressive behavior. When he recognizes Romeo at the Capulet ball‚ his anger is immediate‚ and he vows to confront him‚ believing it his duty to protect the family’s honor. Tybalt’s motivations are also rooted in his desire to uphold his reputation as a formidable and respected figure in Verona. His decision to challenge Romeo to a duel stems from a need to assert dominance and maintain the family’s dignity. Additionally‚ Tybalt’s impulsive nature and tendency to act without considering consequences contribute to the tragic events that unfold. His hatred for Romeo is not just personal but is deeply intertwined with the longstanding feud between their families‚ making him a key catalyst for the play’s tragic progression.
Mercutio’s Influence
Mercutio’s influence on Romeo is significant in Act 2‚ as he embodies a carefree and passionate spirit that contrasts with Romeo’s emotional intensity. His witty humor and lively personality bring levity to the play‚ while also highlighting Romeo’s romantic nature. Mercutio’s encouragement of Romeo to attend the Capulet ball in Act 1 sets the stage for the lovers’ meeting‚ showcasing his role as a catalyst for key events. However‚ his impulsive and confrontational behavior‚ particularly in his duel with Tybalt‚ escalates tensions and leads to tragic consequences. Mercutio’s loyalty to Romeo is unwavering‚ but his inability to restrain his temper ultimately seals his fate. His death serves as a turning point‚ propelling Romeo toward revenge and intensifying the play’s tragic momentum. Mercutio’s influence underscores themes of friendship‚ loyalty‚ and the destructive power of unchecked emotions‚ making him a pivotal character in Act 2.
Themes in Act 2
Act 2 explores themes of love vs. hate‚ fate and destiny‚ loyalty and betrayal‚ conflict and violence‚ and identity and family‚ shaping the tragic progression of Romeo and Juliet’s story.
Love vs. Hate
In Act 2‚ the theme of love vs. hate is central‚ as Romeo and Juliet’s romantic bond contrasts sharply with the feud between their families. Their love blossoms in secret‚ symbolized by the balcony scene‚ where Juliet confesses her feelings‚ and Romeo vows his devotion. This pure‚ selfless love highlights the transformative power of affection.
However‚ hate and violence simmer beneath the surface. Tybalt’s anger toward Romeo and his family intensifies the conflict‚ showcasing the destructive nature of hatred. The tension escalates when Tybalt challenges Romeo to a duel‚ setting the stage for tragic consequences. Friar Laurence’s efforts to reconcile the families through marriage underscores the struggle between love and hate.
Ultimately‚ Act 2 reveals how love and hate coexist‚ with love offering hope for peace‚ while hate threatens to destroy it. This duality drives the play’s emotional depth and foreshadows the devastating outcomes of unchecked hatred and impulsive actions.
Fate and Destiny
In Act 2‚ the theme of fate and destiny emerges as a powerful force shaping the characters’ lives. Romeo and Juliet believe their love is predestined‚ with Romeo declaring‚ “Heaven is here‚ where Juliet lives.” This belief in fate drives their impulsive decisions‚ such as their secret marriage. Friar Laurence‚ hoping to end the feud‚ marries them‚ suggesting he‚ too‚ trusts in a higher plan.
Yet‚ fate seems to work against them. Tybalt’s hatred and the families’ feud create a sense of inevitability‚ as if their tragic outcome is sealed. Juliet’s famous line‚ “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet‚” reflects her belief that fate‚ not names‚ controls her destiny. The chorus’s warning of “star-cross’d lovers” reinforces the idea that their fate is unavoidable.
Act 2 highlights how the characters’ belief in fate accelerates their downfall‚ making their story a timeless exploration of destiny’s power.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Loyalty and betrayal are central themes in Act 2‚ as characters navigate their commitments to family‚ friends‚ and love. Mercutio’s unwavering loyalty to Romeo is evident in his defense of Romeo’s honor‚ while Juliet’s loyalty to Romeo leads her to defy her family‚ showcasing her commitment to their love over her duty to her parents. Juliet’s decision to marry Romeo in secret‚ despite the feud between their families‚ highlights her loyalty to him and her willingness to risk everything for their relationship.
Betrayal also emerges through the tension between loyalty and conflict. Tybalt’s loyalty to the Capulets drives his hatred for Romeo‚ leading to violent confrontations. Meanwhile‚ Friar Laurence’s decision to marry Romeo and Juliet secretly can be seen as both an act of loyalty to the lovers and a potential betrayal of the families’ trust. The interplay of these themes underscores the tragic consequences of divided loyalties and the devastating impact of betrayal.
Conflict and Violence
Act 2 of Romeo and Juliet is marked by escalating conflict and violence‚ which drive the play’s tragic progression. The tension between the Montagues and Capulets reaches a boiling point‚ particularly in the duel between Mercutio and Tybalt. Mercutio’s death at Tybalt’s hand ignites a cycle of revenge‚ as Romeo‚ filled with rage and grief‚ kills Tybalt. This act of violence leads to Romeo’s banishment‚ further entangling the characters in a web of conflict and consequence.
The clash between love and hatred is starkly evident‚ as the characters’ emotions intensify. The fight scenes and emotional confrontations underscore the destructive nature of unchecked passion and the feud’s devastating impact. These events highlight how violence perpetuates itself‚ ultimately leading to irreversible tragedy and heartbreak for the characters involved.
I should also think about other characters‚ like Friar Laurence‚ who plays a role in their decisions. His influence might tie into the themes of identity and family as well. Additionally‚ the conflict between Tybalt and Romeo adds to the family tensions.
Let me draft it:
“In Act 2‚ the themes of identity and family are deeply intertwined. Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage symbolizes their struggle to define themselves beyond their families’ hatred. Juliet’s decision to defy her parents highlights her internal conflict between loyalty to her family and her love for Romeo‚ showcasing her growth in asserting her own identity. Similarly‚ Romeo’s commitment to Juliet distances him from his family and friends‚ emphasizing his evolving sense of self. Friar Laurence’s role in their union adds complexity‚ as he attempts to reconcile their love with the animosity between their families. The ongoing feud‚ particularly with Tybalt’s animosity towards Romeo‚ underscores the destructive impact of family loyalty. This tension between personal identity and familial obligations drives the tragic progression of the play.”
I need to check the word count. Let me count the words:
In
Act
2‚
the
themes
of
identity
and
family
are
deeply
intertwined.
Romeo
and
Juliet’s
secret
marriage
symbolizes
their
struggle
to
define
themselves
beyond
their
families’
hatred.
Juliet’s
decision
to
defy
her
parents
highlights
her
internal
conflict
between
loyalty
to
her
family
and
her
love
for
Romeo‚
showcasing
her
growth
in
asserting
her
own
identity.
Similarly‚
Romeo’s
commitment
to
Juliet
distances
him
from
his
family
and
friends‚
emphasizing
his
evolving
sense
of
self.
Friar
Laurence’s
role
in
their
union
adds
complexity‚
as
he
attempts
to
reconcile
their
love
with
the
animosity
between
their
families.
The
ongoing
feud‚
particularly
with
100. Tybalt’s
101. animosity
102. towards
103. Romeo‚
104. underscores
105. the
106. destructive
107. impact
108. of
109. family
110. loyalty.
111. This
112. tension
113. between
114. personal
115. identity
116. and
117. familial
118. obligations
119. drives
120. the
121. tragic
122. progression
123. of
124. the
125. play.
That’s . I need to add 20 more words to reach 145. Let me expand on Friar Laurence’s role and the consequences of their decisions.
Revised version:
“In Act 2‚ the themes of identity and family are deeply intertwined. Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage symbolizes their struggle to define themselves beyond their families’ hatred. Juliet’s decision to defy her parents highlights her internal conflict between loyalty to her family and her love for Romeo‚ showcasing her growth in asserting her own identity. Similarly‚ Romeo’s commitment to Juliet distances him from his family and friends‚ emphasizing his evolving sense of self. Friar Laurence’s role in their union adds complexity‚ as he attempts to reconcile their love with the animosity between their families‚ hoping to end the feud. The ongoing conflict‚ particularly with Tybalt’s animosity towards Romeo‚ underscores the destructive impact of family loyalty and honor. This tension between personal identity and familial obligations drives the tragic progression of the play‚ leading to irreversible consequences.”
Now‚ counting the words again:
In
Act
2‚
the
themes
of
identity
and
family
are
deeply
intertwined.
Romeo
and
Juliet’s
secret
marriage
symbolizes
their
struggle
to
define
themselves
beyond
their
families’
hatred.
Juliet’s
decision
to
defy
her
parents
highlights
her
internal
conflict
between
loyalty
to
her
family
and
her
love
for
Romeo‚
showcasing
her
growth
in
asserting
her
own
identity.
Similarly‚
Romeo’s
commitment
to
Juliet
distances
him
from
his
family
and
friends‚
emphasizing
his
evolving
sense
of
self.
Friar
Laurence’s
role
in
their
union
adds
complexity‚
as
he
attempts
to
reconcile
their
love
with
the
animosity
between
their
families‚
hoping
to
end
the
feud.
100. The
101. ongoing
102. conflict‚
103. particularly
104. with
105. Tybalt’s
106. animosity
107. towards
108. Romeo‚
109. underscores
110. the
111. destructive
112. impact
113. of
114. family
115. loyalty
116. and
117. honor.
118. This
119. tension
120. between
121. personal
122. identity
123. and
124. familial
125. obligations
126. drives
127. the
128. tragic
129. progression
130. of
131. the
132. play‚
133. leading
134. to
135. irreversible
136. consequences.
Now‚ it’s . I need to add 9 more. Perhaps expand on the consequences.
Final version:
“In Act 2‚ the themes of identity and family are deeply intertwined. Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage symbolizes their struggle to define themselves beyond their families’ hatred. Juliet’s decision to defy her parents highlights her internal conflict between loyalty to her family and her love for Romeo‚ showcasing her growth in asserting her own identity. Similarly‚ Romeo’s commitment to Juliet distances him from his family and friends‚ emphasizing his evolving sense of self. Friar Laurence’s role in their union adds complexity‚ as he attempts to reconcile their love with the animosity between their families‚ hoping to end the feud. The ongoing conflict‚ particularly with Tybalt’s animosity towards Romeo‚ underscores the destructive impact of family loyalty and honor. This tension between personal identity and familial obligations drives the tragic progression of the play‚ leading to irreversible consequences that will resonate beyond Act 2.”
Now‚ counting again:
In
Act
2‚
the
themes
of
identity
and
family
are
deeply
intertwined.
Romeo
and
Juliet’s
secret
marriage
symbolizes
their
struggle
to
Literary Devices
Act 2 employs metaphors‚ imagery‚ and dramatic irony. Juliet compares Romeo to the sun‚ while Friar Laurence’s marriage plan carries tragic irony‚ foreshadowing the inevitable fate‚ enriching the depth.
Metaphors and Imagery
Shakespeare richly employs metaphors and imagery in Act 2 to heighten emotional depth and thematic resonance. Juliet famously compares Romeo to “the sun” and “light” in the balcony scene‚ emphasizing his radiance and transformative power. Romeo‚ too‚ uses vivid imagery‚ describing Juliet as “a bright angel” and “a winged messenger of heaven‚” underscoring her ethereal beauty. Friar Laurence’s soliloquy about herbs and flowers metaphorically highlights the duality of nature’s power to heal or harm‚ foreshadowing the tragic events ahead. The imagery of Capulet’s orchard wall serves as a visual barrier between love and conflict‚ while Juliet’s “cheek resting on her hand” paints a serene yet vulnerable portrait. These literary devices not only enhance the play’s poetic beauty but also deepen the audience’s connection to the characters’ emotions and the unfolding drama. Through such imagery‚ Shakespeare masterfully conveys the intensity of love and the inevitability of fate.
Dramatic Irony
Dramatic irony in Act 2 of Romeo and Juliet heightens tension and engages the audience emotionally. A prominent example occurs when Friar Laurence marries Romeo and Juliet‚ believing it will end the feud‚ while the audience knows the families’ hatred makes this outcome unlikely. Another instance is Juliet’s decision to fake her death‚ which she believes will solve her problems‚ but the audience anticipates the tragic consequences. Additionally‚ Romeo’s farewell to Juliet‚ where he says‚ “We shall be strangers till I meet thee again‚” carries ironic weight‚ as the audience knows their next meeting will be in death. These moments of dramatic irony underscore the inevitability of the tragedy and deepen the emotional impact of the play. Shakespeare’s use of this device ensures the audience remains acutely aware of the characters’ doomed fate‚ amplifying the play’s dramatic tension and sorrow.
Symbolism in Act 2
Symbols in Act 2 of Romeo and Juliet enhance the play’s emotional depth and thematic resonance. The balcony symbolizes Juliet’s confinement and her longing for freedom‚ while the moonlight represents her purity and idealized love. The wall separating the Capulets’ orchard from the outside world symbolizes the divide between love and societal conflict. Romeo’s ladder‚ used to reach Juliet‚ symbolizes the lengths he will go to for their love and the obstacle their families present. Friar Laurence’s herbs and potions symbolize hope and deception‚ as he uses them to aid the lovers‚ but they later contribute to the tragic outcome. Light and darkness are also symbolic‚ representing love’s purity and the impending doom. These symbols collectively emphasize the struggle between love and the external forces that seek to destroy it‚ adding layers of meaning to the narrative. Shakespeare’s use of symbolism enriches the play’s exploration of love‚ fate‚ and conflict.
Essay Prompts and Discussion Topics
Study Questions
What motivates Juliet to risk everything for Romeo?
How does Friar Laurence justify his decision to marry Romeo and Juliet?
What role does Mercutio play in escalating tensions?
Why does Romeo hesitate to fight Tybalt?
How does Juliet’s balcony soliloquy reveal her character?
What consequences arise from the duel in Act 2?
How does love vs. hate dominate Act 2’s conflicts?
What does Juliet’s decision to marry Romeo reveal about her growth?
Why does Tybalt’s anger toward Romeo intensify?
How does Act 2 foreshadow the tragic ending?