Romeo and Juliet - Plot Summary

Tragedy

A play, story, or narrative that deals with serious and often somber themes, typically involving the downfall of the main character.

Montagues

One of the two feuding families in Romeo and Juliet, represented by Romeo.

Capulets

The rival family to the Montagues, represented by Juliet.

Ancient grudge

A long-standing feud between the Montagues and Capulets that forms the backdrop of the play's conflict.

Banishment

The punishment of being expelled from one's home or community, as Romeo was after killing Tybalt.

Heartbroken

Feeling overwhelming sorrow due to loss or separation, as experienced by Romeo and Juliet.

Faking death

A tactic employed by Juliet to escape her impending marriage to Paris.

Poison

A deadly substance that Romeo consumes believing it will reunite him with Juliet in death.

Feuding families

Families engaged in a bitter conflict, affecting the lives and choices of their members.

Secret marriage

The union of Romeo and Juliet, performed quietly by Friar Laurence to avoid family conflict.