Romeo and Juliet Act 2 Overview

Questions and Answers

Where does Scene 1 take place?

By the wall of the Capulet's orchard.

Whom does Mercutio praise in an attempt to attract Romeo's attention?

Rosaline

What do you know, as a reader, in this scene that Mercutio and Benvolio do not know?

Romeo loves Juliet.

When Romeo does not appear, what does Benvolio conclude?

Romeo enjoys his privacy and will only come out if he wants to. Signup and view all the answers

What does Romeo decide to do at the start of Act 2, Scene 1?

Return to the Capulet's house to find Juliet. Signup and view all the answers

At the beginning of Act 2, Scene 1, Benvolio asks Mercutio to do what?

Call for Romeo Signup and view all the answers

Mercutio attempts to 'conjure' Romeo in Act 2, Scene 1 by doing what?

Listing Rosaline's virtues. Signup and view all the answers

Benvolio warns Mercutio that taunting Romeo will ________.

anger him Signup and view all the answers

Benvolio and Mercutio believe Romeo is hiding in Act 2, Scene 1 because __________________.

He is still pining for Rosaline. Signup and view all the answers

At the end of Act 2, Scene 1, what do Benvolio and Mercutio decide to do?

Go home without Romeo. Signup and view all the answers

To what does Romeo compare Juliet?

The sun. Signup and view all the answers

How bright does Romeo say Juliet's eyes are?

As bright as two stars. Signup and view all the answers

What does Romeo wish he were?

A glove. Signup and view all the answers

What does Juliet say Romeo should do about his name?

Take it away, as she would still love him. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Juliet surprised at Romeo's presence?

The walls were very tall. Also, he would be killed if he was found out. Signup and view all the answers

What does Romeo say is more dangerous than Juliet's kinsman?

20 swords. Signup and view all the answers

How does Romeo say he discovered where Juliet was?

Love led the way. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Juliet so open with Romeo?

She knows they share a mutual love. And she confessed her love aloud before she knew he was there. Signup and view all the answers

Why doesn't Juliet want Romeo to swear by the moon?

It's inconsistent, as it's always waxing and waning. Signup and view all the answers

Why isn't Juliet happy about the promises of love just made?

Because it's too sudden. 'Too rash, too unadvised, too sudden.' Signup and view all the answers

Who does Juliet wish she hadn't yet vowed her love to Romeo?

So she could do it again. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Romeo afraid that his meeting with Juliet is a dream?

It's perfect and blissful. Signup and view all the answers

What choice does Juliet set before Romeo?

If he wants to get married, he must send a messenger tomorrow with the time. Signup and view all the answers

Who is speaking in the line, 'My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words of thy tongue's uttering'?

Juliet is speaking. Signup and view all the answers

Who is speaking in the line, 'What satisfaction canst thou have tonight?'

Juliet is speaking. Signup and view all the answers

Who is speaking in the line, 'Love goes towards love as schoolboys for their books'?

Romeo is speaking. Signup and view all the answers

Who is speaking in the line, 'Oh wilt thou leave me so unsatisfied?'

Romeo is speaking. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Act 2: Scene 1 and 2 Overview

Scene 1 occurs by the wall of the Capulet's orchard, setting the scene for tensions and love.
Benvolio and Mercutio search for Romeo, unaware that he has moved on from Rosaline and loves Juliet.

Character Actions and Dynamics

Mercutio attempts to divert attention by praising Rosaline to bring Romeo back into the conversation.
Benvolio concludes Romeo is enjoying solitude and will return when he desires.
Romeo decides to return to the Capulet's house to seek out Juliet, showcasing his determination and passion.

Romeo and Juliet's Connection

Romeo compares Juliet to the sun, emphasizing her brightness and beauty.
His declaration that Juliet's eyes are as bright as two stars highlights her significance in his life.

Themes of Love and Conflict

Juliet expresses surprise at Romeo’s appearance, concerned about the danger of him being detected by her family.
Romeo fears that the encounter might be a dream due to its enchanting nature, illustrating his disbelief in their newfound love.

Dialogue Highlights

Juliet's thoughts on Romeo changing his name reveal her deep feelings; she would love him regardless of his family name.
The exchange regarding swearing by the moon reflects Juliet’s practical nature and desire for certainty in their relationship.

Emotional Complexity

Juliet's lament about the abruptness of their love speaks to the themes of impulsive romance and the uncertainty of young love.
They both express a longing for more time and a desire to savor their connection while grappling with the implications of their love.

Commitment and Future Plans

Juliet requests that if Romeo desires marriage, he must send a messenger the next day, signaling her willingness to commit despite the risks involved.
This exchange sets up the expectation of future meetings and the possibility of their relationship blossoming amidst their families' feud.

Significant Quotes and Their Implications

"My ears have not yet drunk a hundred words of thy tongue's uttering" – Illustrates Juliet's eagerness and desire to know Romeo deeply.
"What satisfaction canst thou have tonight?" – Indicates Juliet's urgency to define their encounter and relationship.

Conclusion

The scenes reflect the budding romance and the tension between love and familial loyalty, capturing the essence of Shakespeare's exploration of young love and its challenges.

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Description

Dive into the key events of Act 2 Scenes 1 and 2 of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. Explore the dynamics between characters like Romeo, Juliet, Benvolio, and Mercutio as love blossoms amidst conflict. Analyze the vivid imagery and themes that shape their fateful love story.