How does Act 1 set the stage for Romeo and Juliet?
The prologue at the beginning of the play outlines the plot and subtly tells the reader what is going to happen. It gives an indication that tragedy is inevitable and written in the stars "star-crossed lovers" and "fatal loins". This passage is full of oxymorons such as love/hate which leaves an ominous feeling as you begin the play.
Romeo is first introduced to us wandering around in Verona. "Is the day so young?" He did not take part in the violence which shows he is a peaceful person. He complains that Rosaline (a Capulet girl) whom he loves does not love him in return. He says "out of her favour where I am in love" describing his despair at the situation. When he falls in love with Juliet we wonder if it is really love or just lust. It seems quite probable that Romeo likes the idea of the Capulet girls as they pose a challenge and are out of reach. He is also passionate about the things he believes in and always believes he is right; "I'll go along, no such sight to be shown, but to rejoice in splendour of mine own." Romeo says this while Mercutio is trying to persuade him to forget Rosaline. Romeo being stubborn and headstrong is a sign that he may get himself into trouble.
The prologue at the beginning of the play outlines the plot and subtly tells the reader what is going to happen. It gives an indication that tragedy is inevitable and written in the stars "star-crossed lovers" and "fatal loins". This passage is full of oxymorons such as love/hate which leaves an ominous feeling as you begin the play.
Romeo is first introduced to us wandering around in Verona. "Is the day so young?" He did not take part in the violence which shows he is a peaceful person. He complains that Rosaline (a Capulet girl) whom he loves does not love him in return. He says "out of her favour where I am in love" describing his despair at the situation. When he falls in love with Juliet we wonder if it is really love or just lust. It seems quite probable that Romeo likes the idea of the Capulet girls as they pose a challenge and are out of reach. He is also passionate about the things he believes in and always believes he is right; "I'll go along, no such sight to be shown, but to rejoice in splendour of mine own." Romeo says this while Mercutio is trying to persuade him to forget Rosaline. Romeo being stubborn and headstrong is a sign that he may get himself into trouble.
