When we first meet Romeo in William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," he is in a melancholic and love-sick mood. At the beginning of the play, he is heartbroken over Rosaline, a woman who does not return his affections. He expresses feelings of despair and longing, often using oxymorons and poetic language to convey the confusion and pain he feels about love. This melancholy mood sets the stage for his character’s emotional journey throughout the play, especially as he transitions from unrequited love for Rosaline to his passionate love for Juliet.
when we first met romeo, what kind of a mood is he in and why?
9 answers
how do romeo benvolio and mercutio plan to get into the capulets party
In Act 1, Scene 4 of "Romeo and Juliet," Romeo, Benvolio, and Mercutio plan to attend the Capulet's masked ball in a rather spontaneous manner. Benvolio wants to help Romeo get over Rosaline by encouraging him to meet other women. They don’t have invitations to the party, but Mercutio suggests that they can go in disguise since the ball is a masquerade.
Romeo wears a mask, which allows them to enter without being recognized. The plan highlights Mercutio's playful and carefree attitude, contrasting with Romeo's more serious and romantic nature. Ultimately, their plan serves as a pivotal moment in the play, as it leads to Romeo meeting Juliet and the unfolding of their tragic love story.
before the capulets party, how does juliet respond to her mothers suggestion that juliet marry paris?
Before the Capulet's party, in Act 1, Scene 3 of "Romeo and Juliet," Lady Capulet discusses the prospect of Juliet marrying Paris, a handsome and well-regarded man. Juliet responds to her mother’s suggestion with reluctance and an open mind. She tells Lady Capulet that she has not yet given much thought to marriage, saying, "It is an honor that I dream not of."
However, she is also respectful and willing to consider Paris as a potential husband. Juliet indicates that she will look at him during the Capulet's party to see if she might be interested, stating, "I'll look to like, if looking liking move." This response shows that while Juliet is not initially eager about the idea of marriage, she is open to the possibility, highlighting her youthful innocence and deference to her mother's wishes.
what does juliets attitude toward marriage reveal about her charater?
Juliet’s attitude toward marriage, as demonstrated in her conversations with her mother and later interactions in "Romeo and Juliet," reveals several important aspects of her character:
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Youthfulness and Innocence: Juliet's initial reluctance to consider marriage speaks to her youth and innocence. At the beginning of the play, she is only thirteen, and she is more focused on enjoying her life than contemplating significant commitments like marriage.
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Open-Mindedness: Although she is not enthusiastic about the idea of marriage, Juliet is willing to entertain the thought, showing her open-mindedness. She agrees to meet Paris at the Capulet's party, indicating that she is not completely opposed to the idea and is willing to see if she might feel differently after meeting him.
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Respect for Family: Juliet’s respectful attitude toward her mother’s wishes demonstrates her sense of duty and loyalty to her family. She does not outright reject the idea of marrying Paris, indicating her desire to please her parents and conform to societal expectations.
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Depth of Emotion: As the play progresses, Juliet’s character evolves, and her attitude toward love and marriage becomes much more passionate and profound, especially after she meets Romeo. This contrast shows that she is capable of deep emotions and strong convictions when it comes to true love, even in a society that often prioritizes arranged marriages over romantic love.
Overall, Juliet's initial attitude toward marriage highlights her youthful innocence and willingness to navigate the complexities of love and familial expectations, setting the stage for her character's transformation as the play unfolds.
when juliet discovers romeos identity what does this reveal about the conflict she will face
When Juliet discovers that Romeo is a Montague, her reaction reveals the intense conflict that she will face throughout the play. This moment occurs in Act 1, Scene 5, after they have shared their first kiss and she learns from the Nurse that Romeo belongs to the family with which her own family, the Capulets, is feuding.
Here are the key aspects of the conflict she will face:
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Love vs. Loyalty: Juliet is thrust into a situation where she must choose between her deepening love for Romeo and her loyalty to her family. The feuding families represent societal expectations and family honor, which are at odds with her personal desires.
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Individual Desire vs. Social Norms: Juliet’s feelings for Romeo challenge the norms and expectations of her society, which dictate that she should marry within her own family’s social circle. Her love for a Montague puts her in direct opposition to her family's rivalries and enmity.
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Tragic Potential: The awareness of Romeo’s identity foreshadows the tragic consequences that will arise from their love. Juliet’s reaction underscores the sense of impending doom, as their union is fraught with danger from the outset.
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Fear and Determination: Even in her shock and despair, Juliet's love for Romeo remains strong. This highlights her determination to pursue her feelings despite the risks involved. It reveals her character as someone who, when faced with a conflict, is willing to confront difficulties for the sake of love.
Overall, Juliet’s discovery sets the stage for the tragic conflict that drives the plot of the play, illustrating the theme of love's struggle against societal and familial constraints.