Characters
The Capulets and the Montagues
Where do Romeo and Juliet meet for the first time?
At the Capulet’s party.
What theme is highlighted by the ongoing feud between the Capulets and Montagues?
The theme of conflict or family loyalty.
“Do you bite your thumb as us, sir?”
Abram.
What section of Act 1 foreshadows the tragedy to come?
The Prologue, which tells the audience that Romeo and Juliet are “star-crossed lovers.”
Who is Romeo in love with at the beginning of Act 1?
Rosaline.
Why does Romeo agree to go to the Capulet’s party, even though he’s not invited?
He hopes to see Rosaline.
What does Romeo’s immediate love for Juliet represent?
The theme of impulsive and passionate love.
“O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright!”
Romeo (about Juliet).
What does Romeo say just before going to the Capulet party that suggests a bad future?
He says he has a feeling that something will happen at the party that will lead to his untimely death.
Who is Juliet’s cousin, known for his hot temper?
Tybalt.
How does the fight between the servants of the Capulets and Montagues start?
Sampson bites his thumb at Abram, which is seen as an insult.
How does the Prince’s speech in Scene 1 highlight the consequences of violence?
He threatens death to anyone who disturbs the peace, showing that violence leads to severe consequences.
“A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life.”
The Chorus (Prologue).
How does Juliet react when she learns that Romeo is a Montague?
She is shocked and says, “My only love sprung from my only hate!”
Which character tries to keep the peace during the fight in Scene 1?
Benvolio.
What is the relationship between Juliet and Paris, as discussed in Act 1?
Paris wants to marry Juliet, and her parents are considering it.
What does the servant’s inability to read in Scene 2 symbolize?
The class differences between characters in the play.
“I’ll look to like, if looking liking move.”
Juliet (about Paris).
What does Tybalt want to do when he recognizes Romeo and the Capulet party?
He wants to fight Romeo, but is stopped by Lord Capulet.
Who is the ruler of Verona who threatens death to anyone who disturbs the peace again?
Prince Escalus.
What does Romeo compare Juliet to when he first sees her at the party?
He compares her to a bright jewel or a rich treasure (a “rich jewel in an Ethiope’s ear”).
How does Juliet‘s reaction to meeting Romeo connect to the theme of fate?
Juliet expresses a sense of foreboding when she learns Romeo is a Montague, hinting that their love is doomed.
“Peace? I hate the word, as I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee.”
Tybalt.
How does Romeo’s line “O, I am fortune‘s fool!” in Act 1 reflect the theme of fate?
It shows that Romeo feels like his actions are controlled by fate, foreshadowing his lack of control over future events.