Quotes
“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” – Who says this, and what does “wherefore” mean?
Juliet says this
Wherefore = why
What does PETAL stand for in an essay structure?
Point
Evidence
Technique
Analysis
Link
Which theme is reinforced by Tybalt’s desire to fight at the Capulet ball?
Violence
Which kind of love is shown in Benvolio’s loyalty to Romeo?
Friendship & loyalty
In Elizabethan times, who typically arranged marriages?
Families, often fathers
Identify the technique in: “A pair of star-cross’d lovers take their life.”
Foreshadowing (and metaphor)
What is a thesis statement?
A clear, arguable statement responding to the question
Give an example of light imagery from the play.
“It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.”
Give an example of romantic idealism in the play.
Romeo idealising Juliet as “the sun” after meeting her once
How did the belief in fate influence the audience’s view of the lovers?
They saw destiny as unavoidable; tragedy was inevitable
Who says: “A plague o’ both your houses!” and in what context?
Mercutio, after being wounded by Tybalt
In a conclusion, what should you avoid introducing?
New evidence or new arguments
Which theme does Friar Laurence’s potion plan represent?
Fate / potions & poisons
How is passion and impulse shown in Romeo’s actions?
Marrying Juliet within a day of meeting her
Why would the theme of “family honour” resonate with Shakespeare’s audience?
Honour was tied to reputation and social standing
“My only love sprung from my only hate” – What theme does this highlight?
Forbidden love / individuals vs society
Give one way to link your paragraph back to the thesis.
Refer back to the key words of the question and reiterate your main argument
Explain how Romeo’s banishment reflects “individuals vs society.”
The law of Verona punishes personal choices, prioritising social order
Name one example of flawed parental love.
Capulet threatening to disown Juliet if she refuses to marry Paris
How did religion influence the Friar’s decision-making?
The church’s power made him a mediator and moral guide
In “Thus with a kiss I die,” what is Shakespeare doing with the juxtaposition of “kiss” and “die”?
Linking love and death; oxymoron; theme of passion and impulse
How can you integrate context into an essay without making it a history essay?
Connect it to the author’s purpose, themes, or character actions
What theme is most evident in the Nurse’s advice for Juliet to marry Paris after Romeo’s banishment?
Family and duty vs personal desire
Which facet of love combines both love and death in the final scene?
Tragic love & sacrifice
What historical rivalry might Shakespeare have drawn on to inspire the Montague–Capulet feud?
Long-standing noble family rivalries in Italy or England