Context

• How were women viewed in a patriarchal society?

  As property of their fathers and husbands
• How would Juliet's defiance of her father be perceived by an Elizabethan audience?

  It would have shocked them
• What does Shakespeare critique through Juliet's tragic outcome?

  The controlling nature of love and choices
• On what basis was marriage typically arranged in Elizabethan society?

  Wealth, status, and family alliances
• What does the secret marriage of Juliet and Romeo signify?

  Love as something private and rebellious
• How does Shakespeare challenge the concept of arranged marriages?

  By highlighting the lack of agency for young women
• What belief did Elizabethans hold regarding fate?

  That it was written in the stars
• What does the term "star-cross’d lovers" imply?

  Fate governs life and relationships
• How does Shakespeare use fate in his plays?

  To build tension and show tragic collisions
• What was expected of men in terms of honour?

  To defend their honour through violence
• Who do Tybalt and Mercutio represent in the play?

  The toxic honour culture of their time
• What does Shakespeare suggest about outdated ideals of masculinity?

  They lead to death and division
• What is Shakespeare's purpose in using tragedy in his works?

  To reflect on impulsive love and societal control
• What does Shakespeare encourage the audience to question?

  Inherited values around power, gender, and hate
• What are the key themes explored in Shakespeare's works regarding societal norms?

  • Patriarchal society and women's roles
  • Attitudes towards marriage and love
  • Fate and superstition's influence
  • Honour and masculinity's toxic culture
  • Reflection on impulsive love and family conflict