Key Elements
In what city is Romeo and Juliet set?
Verona
What are the two feuding families in the story?
Montagues and Capulets
What two emotions are closely linked in the play?
Love and hate
What event begins the story's main conflict?
A street fight between the Montagues
Who is responsible for writing the letter that Romeo never receives?
Friar Lawrence
What is the difference between public spaces like streets and private spaces like Juliet’s balcony in the play?
Public spaces show conflict; private spaces show intimacy and love
What obstacle do Romeo and Juliet face due to their families?
Their families’ feud forbids their relationship
How does the play explore the concept of free will versus fate?
It shows how personal choices are influenced by fate
What is the main lesson Shakespeare conveys about family conflicts?
They can have tragic and irreversible consequences
How does the Nurse help Juliet with her secret marriage?
She delivers messages between Juliet and Romeo
What is introduced in Act 1 as the primary conflict?
The hatred between the Montagues and Capulets
How does Juliet defy her parents?
She secretly marries Romeo
What does the prologue reveal about Romeo and Juliet’s fate?
They are "star-crossed lovers" destined to die
How does the feud between their families affect the couple’s decisions?
It forces them to make risky and secretive choices
What is Mercutio’s role in the story?
He is Romeo’s friend and is killed by Tybalt, escalating the conflict
What is Romeo’s action during the climax, and how does it alter the ending?
He kills Tybalt, leading to his banishment
How do older characters (like the Nurse) differ in their actions compared to Romeo and Juliet?
Older characters act cautiously while Romeo and Juliet are impulsive
How does Tybalt’s personality create conflict?
His aggression escalates tensions
What does the feud demonstrate about forgiveness and reconciliation?
It shows the challenges of overcoming hatred
Why does Paris visit Juliet’s tomb?
To mourn her and to bring flowers
How does Tybalt’s personality drive conflict?
His fiery temper and sense of honor provoke fights
What internal struggle does Juliet face?
She must choose between family loyalty and love for Romeo
Why do Romeo and Juliet appear powerless against their fate?
Their choices align with the prophecy in the prologue
What ultimate message does the play provide about reconciling through tragedy?
It highlights the importance of empathy and communication
How does Friar Laurence contribute to the tragedy at the end?
His plan to fake Juliet’s death leads to misunderstandings