Question

the tragedy of romeo and juliet act i - first thoughts

1. what did you find most interesting or surprising about act i? (2-3 sentences)

1. what do you think of romeos and juliets initial reactions to one another? does their first encounter seem believable to you? why, or why not? (7-10 sentences not lines)

Explanation:

Question 1

To answer this, we reflect on Act I of Romeo and Juliet. The opening brawl between the Montagues and Capulets is surprising as it immediately establishes the feud's intensity. Also, Romeo's sudden shift from loving Rosaline to being smitten with Juliet at the party is intriguing, showing the impulsivity of young love.

Romeo and Juliet’s initial reactions are intense and romantic. Romeo is captivated by Juliet’s beauty, comparing her to a saint, while Juliet is curious and drawn to Romeo, despite the feud. Their first encounter seems believable because love at first sight, though sudden, reflects the intensity of young emotions and the dramatic context of forbidden love, where passion can override family conflict. The sonnet - like dialogue also adds to the romantic believability, framing their meeting as a fated, poetic moment.

Answer:

What I found most interesting about Act I is the immediate establishment of the bitter feud between the Montagues and Capulets through the opening street brawl, which sets a tense tone. Additionally, Romeo’s abrupt transition from his unrequited love for Rosaline to his instant infatuation with Juliet at the Capulet party is surprising, highlighting the impulsive nature of youthful passion.

Question 2