Act 2 Sc2, also known as the 'balcony scene', is arguably the most well known piece of literature in the world, and certainly by an English author. Even now, four hundred years after it was written, modern day romantics are still referred to as 'Romeo'.

Authors Avatar

Ajogu Akoh 10S                Ms Johns

English cwk

What makes Act 2 Sc 2 so engaging and memorable for the audience?

Act 2 Sc2, also known as the ‘balcony scene’, is arguably the most well known piece of literature in the world, and certainly by an English author.  Even now, four hundred years after it was written, modern day romantics are still referred to as ‘Romeo’.

The scene starts with Romeo abandoning his friends as they leave the exclusive Capulet’s party.  He heads for Juliet’s window, and soon finds it.  Even from this early stage, it is patently obvious that Romeo has true feelings for Juliet.  ‘It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.  Arise fair sun, and kill the envious moon’.  This demonstrates Romeo’s true affection and physical attraction to Juliet.  Even to a non-romantic at heart, the following lines are simply magical.

        ‘Two of the fairest stars in all the heaven, having some business, do entreat her eyes to twinkle in their spheres till they return’.

Join now!

This is Romeo, with his heart melting, complementing the beauty of her eyes.  These metaphors he has used are both associated with vitality and beauty, which sticks in my own mind, and makes the reader want to read on.

Romeo continues to watch Juliet, now noticing her cheek, he comments, ‘She leans her cheek upon her hand…Oh that I were a glove… that I might touch that cheek!  These images of love are so powerful and dramatic that by this stage, the audience is compelled to keep reading.

By this stage, one already knows of Romeo’s infatuation ...

This is a preview of the whole essay