The Real Romeo & Juliet
Why did Romeo originally sneak into the Capulet party?
To see Rosaline, whom he claimed to love.
What is the central argument of "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
Romeo is not a romantic hero, and the play is not a love story—it’s a tragedy
What is the tone of "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
Sarcastic and critical.
What is the main claim in "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
That Romeo and Juliet is not a love story but a critique of romanticizing reckless behavior
What does “paterfamilias” mean in "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
The male head of a family
How does the author of "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" describe Romeo’s behavior toward Rosaline?
As manipulative—he even offered to pay her to sleep with him.
How does "More Than Reckless Teenagers" view Romeo and Juliet’s love?
As real and valid, not just reckless teenage infatuation
What is the tone of "More Than Reckless Teenagers"?
Thoughtful and defensive.
What is the main claim in "More Than Reckless Teenagers"?
That Romeo and Juliet’s love is real and meaningful.
What does the phrase “at the helm” mean in "More Than Reckless Teenagers"?
In charge or in control.
According to "More Than Reckless Teenagers," how does Juliet act differently from Romeo?
Juliet is more rational, while Romeo is emotional and impulsive
How do both articles challenge traditional views of Romeo and Juliet?
One argues it’s not a love story, while the other defends the depth of their love
How does "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" use humor to persuade readers?
By exaggerating Romeo’s flaws to make the audience question his reputation.
What evidence does "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" use to support its argument?
Romeo’s behavior—his pursuit of Rosaline, quick shift to Juliet, and violent actions.
What does “cad” mean when describing Romeo in "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
A dishonorable or deceitful man.
How does "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" argue that Lord Capulet is not the villain?
He initially allows Juliet to choose her husband and might have accepted Romeo.
How does "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" argue that the story is misinterpreted?
Pop culture romanticized the play, but Shakespeare meant it as a cautionary tale.
How does "More Than Reckless Teenagers" challenge gender norms?
It points out that Juliet is actually more logical than Romeo
What type of reasoning does "More Than Reckless Teenagers" use to defend Juliet?
It explains her historical context and how she fights against societal expectations.
What does “levelheaded” mean when describing Juliet in "More Than Reckless Teenagers"?
Rational and clear-thinking.
Why does "More Than Reckless Teenagers" defend Juliet’s choice to love Romeo?
Juliet is not just a foolish girl—she is fighting for independence from strict family rules.
How does "More Than Reckless Teenagers" redefine Juliet’s character?
As a strong, intelligent young woman making difficult choices, not just a girl in love.
What does "Romeo Is a Dirtbag" say about the final reconciliation between the Montagues and Capulets?
They don’t truly change—they just compete over who builds the better statue.
How do both articles use historical context to strengthen their arguments?
"Romeo Is a Dirtbag" critiques how modern culture changed the play’s meaning, while "More Than Reckless Teenagers" explains how Juliet’s situation reflects her time period.
What does “prevaricating” mean when describing the priest in "Romeo Is a Dirtbag"?
Speaking or acting in an evasive or misleading way