Plot Structure and Language

Romeo and Juliet follows a classic five-act structure, with each act serving a specific purpose in the development of the story:

1. Act One: Exposition - Introduces the setting, characters, and central conflict.
2. Act Two: Rising Action - Develops the romance between Romeo and Juliet.
3. Act Three: Climax - Features the deaths of Mercutio and Tybalt, and Romeo's banishment.
4. Act Four: Falling Action - Focuses on Juliet's plan to avoid marrying Paris.
5. Act Five: Catastrophe and Resolution - Concludes with the deaths of Romeo and Juliet and the reconciliation of their families.

Definition: Iambic Pentameter - A poetic meter consisting of five iambs per line, often used by Shakespeare in his plays.

Shakespeare uses different speech patterns to distinguish between characters of different social classes. The upper-class characters, like the Prince, speak in verse with sophisticated language and metaphors. Their speech is carefully constructed and often includes repetitions for emphasis.

Example: The Prince often speaks of himself in the third person, a common practice for nobility in Shakespeare's time.

In contrast, lower-class characters often speak in prose and use more colloquial language. This distinction in speech patterns helps to quickly establish character and social status for the audience.

Character Study: Juliet

Juliet's character arc shows remarkable development from a naive 13-year-old to a determined young woman. Her transformation reflects the play's themes of growth and sacrifice.

Highlight: Juliet's evolution from obedient daughter to independent woman drives much of the play's dramatic tension.