
Romeo and Juliet
Literary charactersAbout
Romeo and Juliet are the quintessential star-crossed lovers in William Shakespeare's iconic play. Their story revolves around the intense feud between their families, the Montagues and Capulets, in Verona. Romeo, a Montague, falls deeply in love with Juliet, a Capulet, at a masked ball. Despite the danger, they exchange vows of love, leading to a secret marriage facilitated by Friar Laurence. Their love is marked by passion and tragedy, as they face numerous obstacles, including family opposition and a fatal duel that results in Romeo's banishment. Their tragic fate unfolds when Juliet fakes her own death to avoid marrying another man, but Romeo believes she is truly dead and poisons himself in her tomb. Juliet awakens to find Romeo dead and, in grief, kills herself as well. The tragic end of the lovers ultimately brings peace between their families, highlighting the destructive nature of their long-standing feud. Romeo and Juliet have become archetypes of star-crossed lovers, symbolizing the enduring power of love amidst adversity. Their story has been retold and reinterpreted in various forms of art and media, continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.