Romeo and Juliet Act 2 Scene 5 Flashcards

Study Notes

Juliet's Anticipation

Juliet is anxious about the Nurse's delay and justifies it by attributing her slowness to her old age and lack of experience in love.

The Nurse's Teasing

The Nurse plays with Juliet’s impatience by dragging out her responses, pretending to be weary and putting on a melancholic expression to build anticipation.

Significant Message Delivered

The Nurse finally reveals that Romeo is at Friar Lawrence's cell, waiting to marry Juliet, and mentions that Romeo will use a rope ladder to reach her at night.

Purpose of the Rope Ladder

The rope ladder is intended for Romeo to climb up to Juliet's chamber for their secret meeting, symbolizing their love and the lengths they go to be together.

Act 2 Scene 5 Summary

The scene unfolds in the Capulet orchard where Juliet, anxious over the Nurse's prolonged absence, ultimately learns that she is to marry Romeo with the help of Friar Lawrence.

Detailed Scene Overview

Juliet, waiting for the Nurse, experiences a buildup of anxiety over the Nurse's tardiness. Upon her return, the Nurse feigns exhaustion, which increases Juliet's distress. After much teasing, the Nurse discloses that Romeo awaits her in Friar Lawrence's cell. The Nurse then leaves to fetch a ladder for Romeo, serving as a metaphor for their attempts to overcome obstacles in their love.

Quotation Acknowledgment

The Nurse expresses, "Then hie you hence to Friar Laurence' cell; There stays a husband to make you a wife," indicating the urgency of the situation and the importance of their union.

Description

Test your knowledge of Act 2 Scene 5 in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet with these flashcards. Explore Juliet's feelings, the Nurse's interactions, and how communication plays a role in their relationship. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of this classic text.