Question

In the prologue of Romeo & Juliet, how does Shakespeare tell you the story's tragic ending right at the very beginning?

Answer 1

Summarize into 1 sentence

Answer 2

In the prologue of "Romeo and Juliet," Shakespeare uses a sonnet to outline the central themes and events of the play, explicitly revealing the tragic fate of the main characters. The prologue mentions that the story is about "two households, both alike in dignity," and introduces the characters of Romeo and Juliet as "star-cross'd lovers." This phrase suggests that their destiny is doomed from the outset, highlighting the theme of fate versus free will.

Additionally, the prologue states that their deaths will end the feud between their families, indicating that the story will culminate in tragedy. By stating that their "death-mark'd love" is central to the narrative, Shakespeare effectively sets the tone for the play, preparing the audience for the inevitable and tragic conclusion, while also evoking a sense of foreboding. Thus, from the very beginning, the prologue informs the audience that the story will not end well, establishing a framework of tragic inevitability that resonates throughout the play.

Answer 3

In the prologue of "Romeo and Juliet," Shakespeare foreshadows the tragic ending by describing the characters as "star-cross'd lovers" whose doomed romance will ultimately end in death, thereby resolving the feud between their families.