2.6.1

Scene 1

Test yourself

Summary of Act 5, Scene 1

Here's a summary of what happens in Act 5, Scene 1:

Illustrative background for News of Juliet's deathIllustrative background for News of Juliet's death ?? "content

News of Juliet's death

  • In Scene 1, Romeo is quite happy as he mentions a dream he had the night before. In the dream, he was dead and Juliet found him and kissed him – the kiss gave him new life.
  • A Montague servant, Balthazar, comes to Romeo from Verona. He tells Romeo that Juliet was found dead this morning.
  • Romeo hasn’t received the letter from Friar Laurence (telling him the plan). So Romeo is completely heartbroken about Juliet’s death.
Illustrative background for Romeo's planIllustrative background for Romeo's plan ?? "content

Romeo's plan

  • He plans to return to Verona that evening so he can lay with Juliet again.
  • But he feels that he cannot live without her – he goes to an apothecary (a person who sold drugs and magic in the past) and buys some poison.
    • Poison is illegal (and sellers can be put to death), but Romeo tells the man that he has no choice but to sell it because he is too poor to refuse.
  • Romeo gets the poison and heads to Juliet’s tomb. He plans to lay next to her and use the poison to kill himself so that he does not have to live without her.

Key Quote - Act 5, Scene 1

In Act 5, Scene 1, Romeo says: 'Nothing can be ill, if she be well.' Here's an analysis of this key quote:

Illustrative background for ObsessionIllustrative background for Obsession ?? "content

Obsession

  • Even while exiled, Romeo is completely obsessed with his love for Juliet.
  • He feels that everything in life will eventually be alright as long as Juliet is ok.

Jump to other topics

1Context

2Plot Summary

3Key Characters

4Key Themes & Concepts

5Writing Techniques

6Recap: Main Quotes

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium