“Romeo and Juliet”
William Shakespeare
Plot Summary, Themes & Characters
ACT 1
The play begins in Verona, where a feud between the Montague and Capulet families frequently
erupts into violence. In the opening scene, a brawl breaks out between servants of the two
families. Prince Escalus intervenes, declaring that further breaches of the peace will be
punished by death.
Romeo, the son of Montague, is infatuated with Rosaline, a woman who does not return his
love. His friends, Benvolio and Mercutio, persuade him to attend a Capulet party in hopes of
finding a new love. At the party, Romeo meets Juliet, the daughter of Capulet, and they instantly
fall in love, despite knowing each other's identities. They share a kiss, but their joy is cut short
when they realise they belong to feuding families.
ACT 2
Romeo sneaks into the Capulet orchard to see Juliet. They confess their love and decide to
marry secretly. With the help of Friar Laurence, who hopes their union will end the feud, they
are married the next day. Juliet's Nurse acts as a go-between, helping to arrange the wedding.
DLCNOTES© 2024
William Shakespeare
Plot Summary, Themes & Characters
ACT 1
The play begins in Verona, where a feud between the Montague and Capulet families frequently
erupts into violence. In the opening scene, a brawl breaks out between servants of the two
families. Prince Escalus intervenes, declaring that further breaches of the peace will be
punished by death.
Romeo, the son of Montague, is infatuated with Rosaline, a woman who does not return his
love. His friends, Benvolio and Mercutio, persuade him to attend a Capulet party in hopes of
finding a new love. At the party, Romeo meets Juliet, the daughter of Capulet, and they instantly
fall in love, despite knowing each other's identities. They share a kiss, but their joy is cut short
when they realise they belong to feuding families.
ACT 2
Romeo sneaks into the Capulet orchard to see Juliet. They confess their love and decide to
marry secretly. With the help of Friar Laurence, who hopes their union will end the feud, they
are married the next day. Juliet's Nurse acts as a go-between, helping to arrange the wedding.
DLCNOTES© 2024
