There are two main families in Verona, the town where the play is set. Theses are the Montagues and the Capulets. These two families are constantly fighting and after one public brawl, they are told if they disturb the peace again their lives shall pay for it. Romeo and Juliet meet at the Capulet ball, where Romeo has sneaked in with his cousin, Benvolio, and best mate, Mercutio. He and Juliet fall in love at first sight. Unfortunately, Juliet's cousin sees Romeo has sneaked in and vows to get revenge. After this, Romeo and Juliet are married in secret. Later that same day, Tybalt comes after Romeo and when Romeo won't fight, he slays Mercutio instead. Romeo is so angry and upset that he battles Tybalt and kills him too. He is banished, instead of executed and has one last night with Juliet. Meanwhile, Juliet's parents plan for her to marry the eligible County Paris, and when she refuses, her father disowns her. She decides to fake her death with a sleeping potion and sends a message to Romeo to warn him. Alas, this message never arrives, and Romeo is told Juliet is dead. He rushes back to Verona to see if the news is true and finds Juliet 'dead' in the vault. He can't live without his love, so he drinks some poison. Juliet wakes up and sees her man dead and so stabs herself.
Probably the most tragic of Shakespeare's tragedies, but I like it anyway because it's about being in love, which is nice. I don't believe in love at first sight, but this is a play so anything is allowed to happen.
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Sep 10th, 2000
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