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Caroline's avatar

By making these characters much younger than originally developed (per your last installment), it is no surprise that they are self-absorbed. Teenagers are, by nature, just that. They are immersed in the work of figuring out who they are / will be. Most teens have moments of altruism; however, doe-eyed love doesn’t inspire selfless acts on the whole.

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John McGee, PhD's avatar

Thanks for your thoughts, Caroline! Completely agree that such altruism is rare. What's significant here is the change. I'm trying to show that ALL of Shakespeare's changes to the original story are unfavorable to the lovers, as I try to debunk the still-prevalent romantic conception. Thanks again for the feedback. Very happy to have you as a reader.

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Donna T's avatar

Another eye opening instalment!

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Trish's avatar

I prefer your interpretation of Romeo and Juliet. It gives the play far more depth and interest. Thanks! I am very much enjoying your posts.

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John McGee, PhD's avatar

Thanks so much, Trish! Thrilled to have a you as a reader.

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rohn bayes's avatar

gotit / what was he thinking ?? a modern man perhaps as opposed to Brooke’s romanticism

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John McGee, PhD's avatar

Thanks for the read, Rohn. Appreciate your interest. What explains the change? I don’t think Shakespeare’s romanticizing the lovers, like previous tellers of the story. The opposite: I think he’s satirizing them. More to come!

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