Revison

Question 1

Love

Answer 1

There are different forms of love in the play – romantic, physical, and related to friendship and family. The play could be seen as a plea for putting love before status.

Question 2

Status/power

Answer 2

The lust for power is seen to drive many of the male characters – Romeo is the odd man out in his pursuit of love.

Question 3

Family

Answer 3

The role of a family name and the honour due to family members are seen as central to the conflicts and tensions in the play.

Question 4

Conflict

Answer 4

Conflict is in part a plot device, bringing about change in the play. However, Shakespeare also considers its impact on two families.

Question 5

Fate

Answer 5

The Prologue at the start of the play invites us to understand why the deaths of the lovers are inevitable – or fated.

Question 6

Foreshadowing

Answer 6

Throughout the play we are reminded that Romeo and Juliet will die – this builds anticipation but also asks us to think why they will die.

Question 7

Dramatic irony

Answer 7

Throughout the play the audience is aware of Romeo and Juliet’s relationship and their imminent death – this both frustrates and empowers the audience.