Summary

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare is set in Verona, Italy. The tragedy presents how the strife of two powerful families results in the death of their children - two “star-crossed lovers”.

As the play opens, the families of Montague and Capulet have been at each other’s throats for longer than anyone can remember. Prince Escalus, the ruler of Verona, is getting tired of having to restore peace whenever they fight. Meanwhile, Romeo, the son of Montague, fancies himself in love with a woman named Rosaline while Juliet, the daughter of Capulet, is told by her parents that Count Paris has taken an interest in her. Juliet is prepared to do what is expected of her and marry this eligible bachelor.

However, at a Capulet costume party that same night, Romeo and Juliet meet for the first time. Romeo and his friends have managed to sneak into the party, despite Romeo being recognized by Juliet’s hotheaded cousin Tybalt. Romeo and Juliet instantly fall in love, talk, and kiss; Romeo has forgotten all about Rosaline and Juliet all about Paris. Not even the revelation that they each belong to a rival family shakes their feelings. 

That night Romeo comes to stand under J...