Historical context

• When was 'Romeo and Juliet' written?


  The play was written between 1591 and 1595.
• Who wrote 'Romeo and Juliet'?

  William Shakespeare.
• What historical events happened during 1591 to 1595?


  • Young daughters were married into families by their fathers.

  •Women were inferior to men.

  •The Elizabethans believed in astrology and that fate was written in the stars.

  •The Elizabethans were extremely religious.
• What happens during 'Romeo and Juliet'? 


  We are introduced to the fighting families of the Montagues and Capulets who are known around Verona for their ancient discord. Lord Montagues son, Romeo, is initially I love with Rosaline however this doesn't work out. After breaking into a Capulet ball he sees Juliet, Lord Capulets daughter, and they both immediately fall in love and want to marry. They are married by Friar Lawrence secretly in hope the feud will end however this ends in both of their deaths.
• Why did Shakespeare decide to write 'Romeo and Juliet'?


  To emphasise to the audience that death is inevitable and cannot be prevented.
• What happens in every tragic story?


  The tragic characters always die.