Act 1 Flashcards
(35 cards)
Describe the setting of ‘Romeo and Juliet’.
The play takes place in Verona, Italy.
Explain the major events that occur in Act 1, Scene 1.
A battle breaks out between the Capulets and Montagues, and Prince Escalus declares that anyone who breaks the peace again will be executed.
What happens in Act 1, Scene 2 regarding Paris and Juliet?
Paris expresses interest in marrying Juliet, but her father says he must wait two years.
How do Romeo and Benvolio get invited to the Capulet party?
Romeo and Benvolio read Peter’s list for him and he invites them to the party not knowing that they are Montages
Define Juliet’s feelings about marrying Paris in Act 1, Scene 3.
Juliet expresses that she will marry Paris if her mother wants her to.
What significant speech does Mercutio give in Act 1, Scene 4?
Mercutio gives a speech about Queen Mab.
How does Romeo feel about the party he is attending in Act 1, Scene 4?
Romeo admits that he feels this party will somehow lead to his death.
Describe the encounter between Romeo and Juliet at the party in Act 1, Scene 5.
Romeo meets Juliet at the party, and they experience love at first sight.
Explain the role of the Nurse in Juliet’s life.
The Nurse is a caretaker for Juliet and plays a significant role in her upbringing.
What is the relationship between Tybalt and Juliet?
Tybalt is Juliet’s cousin.
Who is Prince Escalus and what is his role?
Prince Escalus is a member of the royal family and enforces the law in Verona.
Describe the significance of the quote ‘Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs.’
This quote reflects the complex and often painful nature of love, suggesting that it is both beautiful and filled with sorrow.
“Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs; Being purg’d, a fire sparkling in lovers’ eyes; Being vex’d, a sea nourish’d with lovers’ tears. What is it else? A madness most discreet, A choking gall, and a preserving sweet”
Describe this quote
Romeo, Act 1 Scene 1
Explain the significance of the phrase ‘star-crossed lovers’ in the context of the play.
The phrase ‘star-crossed lovers’ refers to Romeo and Juliet, indicating that their love is doomed due to external circumstances and fate.
“is love a tender thing? It is too rough, Too rude, too boisterous, and it pricks like thorn.”
Describe this quote
Romeo in Act 1 Scene 4
What does Prince Escalus threaten in Act 1, Scene 1?
Prince Escalus threatens that if the peace is disturbed again, the lives of those responsible will pay the forfeit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order.
Define dramatic irony
Dramatic irony is when the audience knows something that the characters do not.
“O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night As a rich jewel in an Ethiope’s ear Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear! … For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night”
Describe this quote
This quote was said by Romeo referring to Juliet, as he describes her beauty. Act 1 Scene 5
What is the role of Queen Mab in folklore as mentioned in the play?
Queen Mab is described as a fairy midwife who rides in a chariot made from an empty hazelnut, symbolizing dreams and the whimsical nature of love.
What is personification.
Personification is when something that isn’t human is given human traits, qualities, or actions.
What does Sampson’s line about biting his thumb signify in the play?
Sampson’s line about biting his thumb is a provocative gesture, indicating a challenge or insult, which escalates the conflict between the Montagues and Capulets.
What is a simile
A comparison using like or as
Describe the role of Queen Mab in influencing dreams.
Queen Mab influences people’s dreams, providing lovers with dreams of love and bringing nightmares to those she dislikes.
Explain the characteristics of the fairy from English folklore.
The fairy is described as mischievous and benevolent, symbolizing the power and predictability of dreams.
