Our Violent Ends

Our Violent Ends deals with themes of agency and fate and is set in a world where violence is endless and seemingly inevitable. Does the text suggest that Roma and Juliette’s deaths are a matter of choice or a matter of destiny? Does it suggest that the distinction between fate and destiny is important when the result is the same? Use evidence from the text to support your claim.

In Romeo and Juliet, Friar Laurence uses the phrase “violent delights” to not only refer to physical violence but all extreme emotions. Yet, in Our Violent Ends, high emotion is shown to reveal the characters’ true feelings. These feelings still often result in “violent ends.” Choose two or three moments when characters give in to their feelings and compare the consequences. Does the novel suggest that it is safer to hide or reveal one’s feelings?

Examine the portrayal of a character who does not have a clear corollary in Romeo and Juliet (for example, Kathleen/Celia, Dimitri, or Alisa). What does their inclusion add to the novel? Use specific descriptors (in terms of personality and action more than appearance) to support your claims.