Understanding Romeo & Juliet: The Wedding

The transcript explores the relationship between Juliet and her nurse in Act 2, Scene 5 of 'Romeo and Juliet'. The nurse teases Juliet before revealing the marriage plans with Romeo. The discussion highlights Shakespeare's use of misdirection and the comedic elements in the play. Friar Laurence's initial disapproval of the marriage is noted, along with the political advantages he later considers. The transcript also explains why Shakespeare chose to have the marriage occur offstage, due to government restrictions on dramatizing church rites, and discusses the deliberate compression of the play's timeline.

What is the nature of the relationship between Juliet and her nurse as depicted in Act 2, Scene 5?

How does the nurse tease Juliet before revealing the news about her marriage?

What does Juliet express about her feelings while waiting for the nurse's news?

What is Friar Laurence's initial reaction to the news of Romeo and Juliet's relationship?

Why does Shakespeare choose to have the marriage ceremony occur offstage?

What is the significance of the time frame in which the events of the play occur?

How does the play's structure contribute to the themes of love and fate?