First, take a few moments to prewrite, or brainstorm.
What do you think is the play’s message about love at first sight?
What is your experience with love at first sight?
What do you believe about love at first sight? Why? Jot down a list of reasons.
Read the section Choosing a Subject on p. 369 in The Essential Guide to Language, Writing, and Literature. Using the checklist for Choosing a Subject, select the question you will answer in your persuasive essay.
Write
Once you have jotted down some ideas, create a brief outline. Your essay should include the following:
An introduction that specifically states your thesis. In your introduction, you should include a very brief summary of your three major arguments. Begin your paper with something that grabs your reader’s attention (a “hook”). A hook can be a question, a surprising statistic, or a strong statement.
You should then devote one paragraph to each reason. In each of these paragraphs, you need to support your reason with facts, examples, and other support from the book. Two of your reasons should be in support of your point of view, and one paragraph should argue against a contrary point of view. A good writer anticipates opposing arguments and explains why they are unsound. For all your support from the book, include the act and scene numbers and put direct quotes in quotation marks.
Conclude with a summary of your main points. Also include a “call to action.” This is a brief statement of what you believe the reader should do or believe as a result of your arguments.
Your essay should consist of five well-developed paragraphs, typed and double-spaced.
Writing Prompt
In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince the reader through a series of persuasive arguments to agree with your point of view. You will support your arguments with facts and examples from the text of Romeo and Juliet. You will complete all the writing steps during Lesson 12. At the end of the lesson, you will submit your final persuasive essay to your teacher.
CA Logo Modification: Only students reading Animal Farm complete the activities below. Down
Animal Farm
Complete these activities.
Using each step of the writing process, imagine that Benjamin has decided to speak out. Prepare a speech in which he tries to persuade the animals to rebel against Napoleon.
You will need a thesis statement and an introductory paragraph that summarizes the situation.
The main body paragraphs will include your main points and supporting details. To persuade your audience, try using the following:
Include sensory details to describe the situation that must be changed.
Show a contrast.
Provide an anecdote or personal experience.
Point out the other side's weak position.
The conclusion paragraph will summarize what you want and why.
Check your spelling and your grammar.
Review the format requirements:
1–2 pages typed
12 pt font, Times New Roman
Double-spaced
1. Introduction
Thesis statement: In Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the message about love at first sight is that it is a powerful and overwhelming force, but it can also be dangerous and lead to tragic consequences. This essay will explore this message by examining the concept of love at first sight in the play.
2. Argument in Support of Love at First Sight
Paragraph: The first meeting between Romeo and Juliet is a classic example of love at first sight. In Act 1, Scene 5, Romeo and Juliet instantly feel a deep connection and are drawn to each other. Romeo describes Juliet as a "holy shrine" and is captivated by her beauty. This shows that love at first sight can be a genuine and intense emotion.
3. Argument in Support of Love at First Sight
Paragraph: However, the rapid progression of Romeo and Juliet's relationship also highlights the dangers of love at first sight. Their impulsive decision to get married after knowing each other for only a short time ultimately leads to tragedy. In Act 3, Scene 1, Romeo's rash actions in response to Tybalt's death demonstrate the negative consequences of acting on immediate, intense feelings of love.
4. Argument Against Love at First Sight
Paragraph: Some critics argue that love at first sight is unrealistic and superficial. They believe that true love requires time to develop and that initial attraction is not enough to sustain a lasting and meaningful relationship. In Act 2, Scene 2, Juliet herself acknowledges the hastiness of their romance, stating "It is too rash, too unadvis'd, too sudden." This suggests that love at first sight may not always lead to a successful and fulfilling relationship.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, while love at first sight can be a powerful and exhilarating experience, Shakespeare's portrayal of it in "Romeo and Juliet" serves as a cautionary tale about the risks and consequences of acting solely on immediate passion. It is important to consider the complexities and challenges of love, rather than simply relying on initial feelings. As readers, we can learn from the tragic fate of Romeo and Juliet and approach relationships with a more thoughtful and cautious mindset. Love at first sight may be enchanting, but it is not a reliable foundation for lasting happiness.