Romeo & Juliet Act 1 Flashcards
What spoilers does the chorus offer in the prologue?
The fued will end in tragedy (they will die)
What is the audience’s first impression of Benvolio and Tybalt in the fight scene?
Include 1 quote
Benvolio is the peacekeeper “I do but keep the peace.”
Tybalt is the instigator “I hate the word as I hate hell, Montegues and thee”
What does the Prince say will happen if future fights occur?
They will be killed - who disturbs the peace again will be punished with death
Paraphrase the story Benvolio tell Montague and Lady Montague
- He describes how Romeo seemed deeply troubled and was wandering alone in the woods, avoiding the light and keeping to the shadows.
- This behavior concerned Benvolio, who attempted to approach Romeo, but Romeo, aware of Benvolio’s presence, avoided him and left the area to maintain his solitude.
- This interaction illustrates Romeo’s melancholic state and his desire to be alone with his thoughts.
What additional information does Montague share about Romeo’s behavior?
He cries a lot and when the sun comes out he shuts the curtains to create an artificial night to hide his grief. He is worried about Romeo
Describe Romeo’s general demeanor when he first talk with Benvolio.
Include a quote.
He is upset, whiny and depressed. He is upset over his unrequited love.
“Ay me! Sad hours feel long.”
What detail about Rosaline particularly troubles Romeo?
She vowed to be celibate and never marry.
What friendly advice does Benvolio give Romeo to get over Rosaline?
Go to a party and look at other girls.
This will help him realize she is not the most beautiful girl and there are other options.
How does Capulet respond to Paris’ request to marry Juliet?
He tells him to wait. Juliet is young (13) and he should wait 2 more years.
He should at least get her to love him.
How does his response suggest that he is a good and loving father?
He could tell her to marry any man he wants but he is not forcing her to marry anyone. He wants her to be more mature and love someone before marrying them.
Why does Romeo receive an invitation to the Capulets’ party?
A servant (who was delivering invitations) invites Romeo after Romeo helps him. The servant doesn’t realize Romeo is a Montague.
What advice does Benvolio give to Romeo regarding Rosaline?
To go to the Capulet’s feast and look at other girls. Benvolio wants Romeo to see there are other options, some better, than Rosaline.
What is the audience’s first impression of the Nurse?
She is a talkative, affectionate and somewhat comical character. She has a motherly relationship with Juliet
What is Lady Capulet’s attitude towards Paris’ offer of marriage?
She is pushing for them to get married - positive and encouraging.
How does Juliet react to her mother pushing her towards Paris?
She doesn’t want to marry Paris but she is obedient to her mother.
Polite obedience mixed with non-committal caution. She will consider her mother’s wishes but is not enthusiastic about marriage.
