What does 'two households both alike in dignity' mean?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the meaning of the phrase 'two households both alike in dignity,' which is a line from Shakespeare's play 'Romeo and Juliet'. It refers to two families that are equal in status and respectability.
Answer
The phrase means the Montagues and Capulets are noble families of equal social standing.
The phrase 'two households both alike in dignity' means that both the Montagues and the Capulets are noble families belonging to the same social class in the city of Verona.
Answer for screen readers
The phrase 'two households both alike in dignity' means that both the Montagues and the Capulets are noble families belonging to the same social class in the city of Verona.
More Information
In 'Romeo and Juliet', Shakespeare establishes from the start that the conflict is between two equally powerful and respected noble families.
Tips
A common mistake is to think 'dignity' refers to self-respect or kindness, rather than social status.
Sources
- What Does 'Two Households Both Alike in Dignity' Really Mean? - owlcation.com
- No Sweat Shakespeare - Famous Quotes - 'Two Households Both Alike in Dignity' - nosweatshakespeare.com
