Act 1 Questions

1. What effect does Gregory and Sampson’s crass joking have on the mood of the scene?

2. What do Benvolio and Tybalt have in common? How are they different?

3. How does the Prince characterize Capulet and Montague?

4. What does Romeo’s speaking in paradoxes suggest about his current state of mind?

I.ii

1. Describe Capulet’s approach to handling Paris’ interest in Juliet.

I.iii

1. How does the Nurse’s rambling provide comic relief in this scene?

2. What extended metaphor does Shakespeare use here, and to what effect?

I.iv

1. What is Mercutio trying to convey to Romeo about dreams?

2. Why is Romeo content to carry on with his friends even though he has a feeling that something will go awry?

I.v

1. What about Juliet initially appeals to Romeo?

2. What kind of imagery does Shakespeare use for Romeo and Juliet's first meeting? Why do you think he chooses this type of imagery?