Overview
This scene covers Romeo's reaction to news of Juliet’s death, his decision to return to Verona, and the role of fate in driving the tragedy forward.
Romeo Receives News
- Romeo is alone and content after a dream where love revives death.
- Balthasar arrives and tells Romeo that Juliet is dead.
- Romeo immediately decides to return to Verona.
Romeo's Actions and Determination
- Romeo asks if Friar Laurence has sent any letters, but Balthasar has none.
- Romeo vows to stay true to Juliet in life or death.
- He remembers a poor apothecary and decides to buy poison from him.
- He persuades the apothecary to sell the poison by appealing to his poverty.
Fate and Prophecy
- Romeo enters Act Five optimistic, despite seeing signs of disaster.
- The mistimed delivery of Friar Laurence's letter alters the events.
- Romeo believes Juliet is truly dead and quickly resolves to be with her in death.
- Prophetic dreams and visions about death reinforce the idea of fate.
- The Friar, representing spiritual guidance, also enables fate’s outcome.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Apothecary — a person who prepared and sold medicines and drugs.
- Fate — the supposed force or power that predetermines events.
- Friar Laurence — a priest who assists Romeo and Juliet.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the role of fate and prophecy in the play.
- Read the next scenes to see the outcome of Romeo’s decision.