Act II Scenes iv, v, vi
Scene iv:
· Yet again we are given a glimpse into Mercutio’s personality, and his relationship with Romeo
· This is another scene that is full of puns, sexual innuendos and jokes, so feel free to check out the No Fear Shakespeare website if you want a better understanding of what is going on
· Mercutio believes he is seeing the true Romeo, when Romeo is not sick with love and can instead joke around and share his with with Mercutio
o “Why, is not this better than groaning for love? / Now art thou sociable, now art thou Romeo” (2.3.76-77)
· As we know, Juliet also believes she knows Romeo’s true soul and personality, so there is a contrast between the two characters already over who Romeo truly is
· If you read through it again, take note of how Mercutio speaks to the nurse
o He isn’t just vulgar and crass with his friends, he does it to the nurse as well
Scene v:
· Another comedic scene for the nurse, and it is usually shown in a comedic fashion in movies as well
o What does the nurse do that is funny or entertaining?
· Eventually she tells Juliet about Romeo’s plans, and Juliet prepares
Scene vi
· Foreshadow again
o Romeo states he does not care what misfortune may come, as it will pale in comparison to the joy he feels at this time
o Friar Lawrence’s response “these violent delights have violent ends” is also forshadowing to the dangers that are lurking ahead in the play
· The lovers are wed
· Yet again we are given a glimpse into Mercutio’s personality, and his relationship with Romeo
· This is another scene that is full of puns, sexual innuendos and jokes, so feel free to check out the No Fear Shakespeare website if you want a better understanding of what is going on
· Mercutio believes he is seeing the true Romeo, when Romeo is not sick with love and can instead joke around and share his with with Mercutio
o “Why, is not this better than groaning for love? / Now art thou sociable, now art thou Romeo” (2.3.76-77)
· As we know, Juliet also believes she knows Romeo’s true soul and personality, so there is a contrast between the two characters already over who Romeo truly is
· If you read through it again, take note of how Mercutio speaks to the nurse
o He isn’t just vulgar and crass with his friends, he does it to the nurse as well
Scene v:
· Another comedic scene for the nurse, and it is usually shown in a comedic fashion in movies as well
o What does the nurse do that is funny or entertaining?
· Eventually she tells Juliet about Romeo’s plans, and Juliet prepares
Scene vi
· Foreshadow again
o Romeo states he does not care what misfortune may come, as it will pale in comparison to the joy he feels at this time
o Friar Lawrence’s response “these violent delights have violent ends” is also forshadowing to the dangers that are lurking ahead in the play
· The lovers are wed