Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet

English 521

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, society regressed; People did not venture far from their tiny villages. Local lords ruled by force and intimidation. Learning took place only in religious houses, and generations grew up ignorant, illiterate, and superstitious of outsiders.

The High Middle Ages:

Serfdom faded into history. Higher wages increased the standard of living for many peasants. This in turn contributed to the rise of wealthy merchants, such as the Medici family of Florence. These merchant families would provide the money, resources and the incentive for the Italian Renaissance.

The Renaissance

The Renaissance from was a cultural movement that spanned the period roughly from the 14th to the 17th century, beginning in Italy in the Late Middle Ages and later spreading to the rest of Europe.

It was a time of “rebirth.” Europeans experienced a reawakening of interest in the ancient classics of Greece & Rome--government, literature, art, and thought.

Setting & Context

Verona and other cities of Italy (late July) a city state with a Prince; no King Early Renaissance/ High Middle Ages Social hierarchy (wealth & prestige = power) Marriage an obvious economic factor Religion (Catholicism) shapes society Entire play spans 1 week

Renaissance Art

Verona, ITALY

Renaissance Architecture

The Cast

Escalus: Prince of VeronaParis: a kinsman of the PrinceMontague, Lady Montague:

Parents of Romeo;wealthy, powerful family;“at odds” with the Capulet family

The Cast

Murcutio: friend of Romeo;kinsman of the Prince

Benvolio:Friend and cousin of Romeo;nephew of Montague

The Cast

Capulet, Lady Capulet: Parents of Juliet;wealthy, powerful family;“at odds” with the Capulet family

Sampson, Gregory: Capulet’s servants

Tybalt:cousin of Juliet; nephew of Lady Capulet

The Cast:

Friar Laurence, Friar John:Franciscans; catholic leadersPeople seek their guidance and advice for almost everything!

Balthasar: Romeo’s servant

Abraham: Montague’s servant

Helpful Resource…

http://www.wikisummaries.org/Romeo_and_Juliet