The fight between the Montagues and the Capulets has led to the death of two

citizens. On September 10, 1599 there was a fight during the afternoon in the

Market Square of Verona between Tybalt Capulet, Mercutio, and Romeo

Montague. The fight started because Tybalt Capulet felt offended by Romeo

Montague. Tybalt Capulet then attempts to fight Romeo Montague but Mercutio

steps in.

In the middle of the sword duel Romeo Montague tried to stop the fight.

Tybalt Capulet then thrust his rapier under Romeo Montague’s arm and stab

Mercutio in the chest. Tybalt Capulet then ran away. Both Benvolio and Romeo

Montague try to help Mercutio. Before dying Mercutio say “Ask for me tomorrow

and you’ll find I’m a grave man” Tybalt Capulet later returned and is stabbed by a

vengeful Romeo Montague. Benvolio Montague tried to get Romeo Montague to

leave by saying “The citizens are up, and Tybalt slain.” The Prince of Verona

later banished Romeo Montague to Mantua for the offences by saying “And for

that offence we do exile hence.”

This is not an isolated incident. There have been three other incidents in

the past two weeks but this the first to have casualties. The Prince of Verona has

commented on these incidents by saying “three civil brawls bred on airy word.”

The Prince of Verona to be very enraged at the Capulets and Montagues for

these incidents. He has said “If you disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay

the forfeit of peace.” The Prince of Verona has also commented on the death of

his cousin Mercutio by saying “I have an Interest in your hearts’ proceeding; my

blood for your rude brawls doth lie a-bleeding.”

1

“Mercy but murderers, pardoning those that kill,” said the Prince of

Verona before leaving.

2