s1&s2

• What does the sequence of near-misses in this section reveal?

  The inescapable work of fate
• What forces Friar John into quarantine?

  An outbreak of plague
• Who seeks out Romeo with news of Juliet's death?

  Balthasar
• How does the audience's perception of fate differ from Romeo's?

  The audience knows both will die, Romeo does not
• What does Romeo mean when he screams, “Then I defy you, stars”?

  He is rejecting the fate he believes opposes him
• What does Romeo decide to do after believing Juliet is dead?

  He decides to kill himself
• How does Romeo's decision lead to the ultimate double suicide?

  His choice to die ensures their tragic end
• What does Shakespeare demonstrate through the irony of Romeo's defiance?

  The extreme power of fate
• What societal factors contribute to the fate of Romeo and Juliet?

  Social institutions and norms
• How does the Apothecary's situation reflect social forces in the play?

  He is forced to sell poison due to poverty
• What internal conflict does the Apothecary face regarding selling poison?

  He does not wish to break the law
• What societal issue drives the Apothecary to sell poison?

  The disparity between rich and poor
• How are Romeo's and the Apothecary's situations similar?

  Both feel unable to control external forces