STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Explain the importance of the opening scene of the play.

2. Describe the significant events that happen at Lord CapuletÂ’s party.

3. Explain the elements that make the balcony scene so memorable.

4. What part does Mercutio play in the play? What purposes are served by it?

5. Explain RomeoÂ’s refusal to fight with Tybalt.

6. What premonitions occur in the play? What is their dramatic purpose?

7. Give an account of the fight in which Mercutio and Tybalt are killed? Show how they precipitate the action of the tragedy?

8. How do Romeo and Juliet receive the news of RomeoÂ’s banishment?

9. Explain how Count Paris contributed to JulietÂ’s demise.

10. Describe what role Friar Lawrence plays in the tragedy.

11. Compare and contrast the characters of Capulet and Montague.

12. Explain the personality and major characteristics of Lady Capulet.

13. Why is the Nurse important to the play?

14. How does the supposed death of Juliet affect Capulet, Lady Capulet, the Nurse, Paris, and the Friar?

15. Describe the meeting of Paris and Romeo in the churchyard at night. What is its outcome?

16. What part does the Prince of Verona play in the feud between the Capulets and the Montagues?

17. Romeo and Juliet are “a pair of star-crossed lovers”. Explain how the family feud and fate lead to their suffering and tragedy.

18. Give examples of wit and humor in the play.

19. Explain how the play is a tragedy of Chance.

20. Explain how the play is a tragedy of Haste.

21. Write a character sketch of Friar Lawrence.

22. Explain how love is developed as the central theme of the play.

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