Act I Scene i
This scene shows our first glimpse into some of the key characters in the play. As we read through, pay attention to the characters, and how they act and speak to each other. This will help give us some insight into their individual personalities, which will come in handy later on when we're continuing to analyze the play.
Some key things to pay attention to during this first scene:
Journal Entry #1
To help us sum up this scene, I would like you to choose between one of the two options below, and write a journal article. Your options are:
Again, make sure you save your journal entry to a section of your computer where you can find it again (I highly recommend creating an Act 1 folder and saving the journal entry in it to help you stay organized). Part of your grade this unit will be based on your answers and journal entries, which we will fill out often as we journey through Romeo and Juliet together.
Some key things to pay attention to during this first scene:
- The very start of the play (aside from the prologue) already has a fight scene and action, to grab the audiences attention. Remember, Shakespeare was a playwright, but also an entertainer, and he knew how to grab his audience's attention at the start!
- Shakespeare also manages to set and demonstrate the economic status of those within the play:
- We are introduced to and hear opinions from the lowest of Verona's citizens (the servants Gregory, Sampson, Abram and Balthasar), while also cementing the knowledge of the feuding families
- We also get to meet both parents (Montagues and the Capulets, very powerful heads of families), and the Prince who is one of the highest members of the society
- Finally, pay attention to Romeo's descriptions and talk of his love for Rosaline.
Journal Entry #1
To help us sum up this scene, I would like you to choose between one of the two options below, and write a journal article. Your options are:
- Imagine that you are Romeo or Rosaline, and that you keep a diary. Write a diary entry (can be Shakespearean dialect or modern language if you would like) that outlines your view on love, and that expresses your deepest feelings towards love.
- Imagine you are Romeo's best friend, and you have heard about his love for Rosaline. Write him a letter offering advice about his infatuation/love towards Rosaline. Should he keep pursuing her? Is he being block-headed or is he honest in his affection?
Again, make sure you save your journal entry to a section of your computer where you can find it again (I highly recommend creating an Act 1 folder and saving the journal entry in it to help you stay organized). Part of your grade this unit will be based on your answers and journal entries, which we will fill out often as we journey through Romeo and Juliet together.