Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare
Contains spoilers for the entire book.
Discussion topics
Topic 01 of 08
The feud
Why do the Montagues and Capulets hate each other, and does it matter that we're never told?
Keep the conversation going
- How does the opening brawl set up the rest of the play?
- Who keeps the feud alive?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.
Discussion topics
Why do the Montagues and Capulets hate each other, and does it matter that we're never told?
Keep the conversation going
- How does the opening brawl set up the rest of the play?
- Who keeps the feud alive?
Is Romeo and Juliet's love real, or only infatuation?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of Romeo's quick move from Rosaline to Juliet?
- How does Juliet's view of love differ from Romeo's?
What does the balcony scene reveal about each of them?
Keep the conversation going
- Why is Juliet so wary of a lover's vows?
- What does 'What's in a name?' mean to you?
What does Mercutio's death change?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of the Queen Mab speech?
- Why does he curse both houses?
How much of the tragedy is caused by everyone rushing?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does Capulet bring the wedding to Paris forward?
- Who in the play urges patience, and who listens?
How responsible are the Nurse and Friar Laurence for what happens?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does the Nurse advise Juliet to marry Paris?
- Was Friar Laurence's plan wise or reckless?
Are the lovers 'star-crossed', or do their own choices doom them?
Keep the conversation going
- What role does chance play, from the plague to the undelivered letter?
- Could the tragedy have been avoided?
What does the ending achieve for Verona, and at what cost?
Keep the conversation going
- Is the families' reconciliation enough?
- How did the final scene in the tomb make you feel?
There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.