Analysis of Act Three - Summary Flashcards
Briefly summarise the key events of Act 3.
Mercutio and Tybalt die in a fight that leads to Romeo’s banishment. Romeo and Juliet spend a night together before she leaves. Capulet arranges Paris and Juliet’s wedding. As she is already married and in love with Romeo, Juliet doesn’t agree to his plan, so Capulet threatens to disown her.
Give an example from Act 3 of a way in which Shakespeare foreshadows Romeo’s and/or Juliet’s death.
Romeo looks as if he is “dead int he bottom of a tomb” when he leaves Juliet. The next time she sees him he will literally be dead in a tomb.
Who gives the most rational advice in Act 3?
A. Paris
B. Capulet
C. Friar Lawrence
D. Mercutio
C. Friar Lawrence encourages Romeo to act calmly, telling him to “Be patient” and persuading him not to kill himself. He tells Romeo to be “happy” that “Juliet is alive” and that he has been banished rather than executed.
How does Juliet’s relationship with the Nurse change during Act 3?
Is this good or bad for Juliet? Give reasons for your answer.
At the start of Act 3, Juliet trusts the Nurse. After the Nurse suggests she marry Paris, Juliet stops trusting her. This is bad for Juliet — she has confided in the Nurse until this point, but now she can’t rely on her support. With Romeo gone too, Juliet is very alone.
How does the overall tone of Act 3 compare to the tone of Act 2?
Explain what effect this has on the audience.
The overall tone of Act 3 is gloomy and desperate, whereas Act 2 is joyful and upbeat. The change in tone signals to the audience that the play has moved from romance towards tragedy and prepares them for the play’s unhappy ending.
