Scene 1
Why does Benvolio want to get off the streets at the beginning of the scene?
He notes the weather is hot, which makes tempers flare and increases the likelihood of a fight with the Capulets.
How does Juliet first react to the news of Tybalt’s death and Romeo’s banishment?
She is conflicted, expressing love for her husband while also being horrified that he killed her cousin, Tybalt.
How does Romeo react to the news of his banishment?
He is hysterical, claiming that banishment is worse than death because it separates him from Juliet.
Why does Lord Capulet agree to have Juliet marry Paris immediately?
He believes it will cheer her up and help her get over the death of her cousin, Tybalt.
Why does Romeo refuse to fight Tybalt initially?
Romeo is now married to Juliet, making Tybalt his kinsman, and he holds the Capulet name in high regard.
What does Juliet realize after her initial shock?
She realizes that if Romeo hadn't killed Tybalt, Tybalt would have killed him, and she decides to stand by her husband.
What three reasons does Friar Laurence give for Romeo to be happy?
Juliet is alive, Romeo killed Tybalt instead of being killed, and the Prince showed mercy by banishing him instead of executing him.
Why do Romeo and Juliet argue about whether it is morning?
Juliet does not want Romeo to leave her room, so she tries to convince herself the nightingale (night bird) is singing, not the lark (morning bird).
What is the significance of Mercutio's line, "A plague o' both your houses"?
He blames both the Montagues and Capulets for his death, signaling the end of the play’s lighthearted tone and the beginning of the tragedy.
What token does Juliet send to Romeo?
She sends her ring through the Nurse as a sign of her love and support.
What plan does the Friar propose?
Romeo will visit Juliet for their wedding night, flee to Mantua, and wait for a time to announce their marriage and seek the Prince’s pardon.
How does Lord Capulet react when Juliet refuses to marry Paris?
He becomes furious, calling her "baggage" and threatening to disown her if she does not obey him.
Why does the Prince banish Romeo instead of sentencing him to death?
The Prince shows mercy because Romeo was avenging Mercutio, who was the Prince's own kinsman.
Who said, "Come, night; come, Romeo. come, thou day in night; For thou wilt lie upon the wings of night. Whiter than new snow on a raven's back."
Juliet
Where does Juliet go at the end of Act 3?
She goes to Friar Laurence’s cell, pretending to ask for confession, but actually seeking a way to avoid marrying Paris.
What advice does the Nurse give Juliet, and how does this change their relationship?
The Nurse tells Juliet to marry Paris, as Romeo is effectively dead to her. This causes Juliet to lose all trust in the Nurse.