Summary

Overview

Romeo and Juliet is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare early in his career about the romance between two Italian youths from feuding families. It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and is one of his most frequently performed plays.

Act 1

The play opens with a street brawl between servants of the Montague and Capulet households. Prince Escalus intervenes and threatens death for any further disturbances. Romeo, a Montague, is lovesick over Rosaline. His cousin Benvolio encourages him to forget her and find someone new.

Romeo and his friends attend the Capulet ball in disguise, where he sees Juliet and falls instantly in love. They share a sonnet and a kiss before discovering they belong to rival families.