William Shakespeare was born in the town Stratford-upon-Avon in the center of England and was baptized in April 1564. He moved to London in 1592 to become part of the theatre scene. Many of Shakespeare’s plays were performed in the Globe Theatre, and Shakespeare himself acted in some of his plays.
Romeo & Juliet:
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In the prologue of Romeo & Juliet, how does Shakespeare let you know the tragic ending of the story right at the very beginning?
- The prologue reveals that Romeo and Juliet are "star-crossed lovers" who will take their own lives, indicating that their love story will end in tragedy.
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What is the Prince's decree after breaking up the fight between the Montagues and Capulets? Why is this important?
- The Prince decrees that any further breach of the peace will result in death. This is important as it establishes the seriousness of the feud between the families and sets the stage for the consequences of their actions throughout the play.
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When we first meet Romeo, what kind of mood is he in? What is the reason for his mood?
- Romeo is melancholic and lovesick, as he is infatuated with Rosaline, who does not return his affections. His mood reflects the pain of unrequited love.
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Why does Romeo desire to attend the Capulet party?
- Romeo desires to attend the Capulet party to see Rosaline, the object of his affection, even though he knows that it is a gathering of their family’s enemies.
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How could Montagues Romeo and Benvolio go to the Capulet’s party when their families are enemies?
- Romeo and Benvolio can go to the party because they are young and impulsive, and they wish to enjoy an evening of revelry. Moreover, they believe that going incognito will allow them to participate without arousing suspicion.
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How does Juliet respond to her mother's suggestion of marriage to Paris?
- Juliet responds to her mother's suggestion with indifference, stating that she has not given much thought to marriage and that she will consider Paris but does not see it as a priority.
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What themes do you see developing in these opening scenes?
- Key themes that develop in these opening scenes include love and its complications, the conflict between family loyalty and personal desire, fate and the idea of being "star-crossed," and the consequences of feud and violence. These themes set the foundation for the central conflict of the play.