You are here

All Site ContentRomeo and JulietAct 5Scene 3
Back to the Play
"lead you even to death"
Language
Act 5,
Scene 3
Lines 216-222

An explanation of the multiple meanings of the phrase “lead you even to death” in Act 5, Scene 3 of myShakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Prince

Seal up the mouth of outrage for a while,
Till we can clear these ambiguities,
And know their spring, their head, their true descent;
And then will I be general of your woes,
And lead you even to death. Meantime forbear,           
And let mischance be slave to patience.
Bring forth the parties of suspicion.

This phrase has several possible meanings:

  • The prince will inform you as to who caused these deaths.
  • Alternatively, he will condemn the guilty parties to death.
  • Or, finally, he will investigate this matter to his utmost.