Act II: Rising Action Preparations for Marriage

Act II, Prologue Sonnet –Romeo has forgotten Rosaline –He and Juliet have fallen in love –Their families hate each other –“But passion lends them power... “ (II.1.14)

Act II, scene 1 Later that evening: –Romeo has left the Capulet’s party. –He’s hiding in their orchard, hoping to catch a glimpse of Juliet. –Benvolio & Mercutio search for him, unaware of his latest crush.

Act II, scene 2 Romeo sees Juliet: –“But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the East and Juliet is the sun! Arise fair sun and kill the envious moon... (II.2.3-5) –“See how she leans that cheek upon her hand, O that I were a glove upon that hand” (II ).

Act II, scene 2 Juliet speaks to the night: –“O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name; Or if thou wilt not... I’ll no longer be a Capulet” (II )

Act II, scene 2 Juliet continues unaware of Romeo’s presence: –“Tis but thy name that is my enemy... What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet” (II ).

Act II, scene 2 Romeo finally responds. Juliet is thrilled to hear his voice, but frightened for his safety. Romeo replies: –“My life were better ended by their hate, than death prolonged, wanting of thy love” (II ).

Act II, scene 2 They vow to marry. It’s almost dawn, so they say good-bye. –Juliet: “Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow.. (II.2.185).

Act II, scene 3 (the next morning) Romeo leaves Juliet and goes directly to Friar Lawrence’s cell. He asks Friar to marry him and Juliet in secret this afternoon. Friar agrees because he believes the marriage will bring peace between the families.

Act II, scene 4 Mercutio and Benvolio discuss Tybalt’s challenge to duel Romeo. Romeo shows up and they exchange crude remarks about Romeo’s much lighter mood.

Act II, scene 4 Then Juliet’s nurse shows up looking for Romeo. He asks her to tell Juliet to meet him at Friar Lawrence’s cell that afternoon, where they will be married.

Act II, scene 5 The nurse delivers the message to Juliet: –“...Hie you hence to Friar Lawrence’ cell; There stays a husband to make you a wife” (II ).

Act II, scene 6 Romeo and Juliet meet at Friar Lawrence’s cell and he beckons them: “...Come with me... For by your leaves, you shall not stay alone till Holy Church incorporate two in one” (II ).