Overview
The lecture summarizes the tragic final scene of "Romeo and Juliet," detailing the sequence of events at Juliet’s tomb and the consequences for all families involved.
Paris at Juliet’s Tomb
- Paris visits Juliet’s tomb, brings flowers, and instructs his servant (page) to keep watch and warn him if someone approaches.
- Paris scatters flower petals around Juliet’s tomb and hides when someone approaches.
Romeo Arrives
- Romeo arrives with his servant Balthazar, asking for tools to enter the tomb under the pretense of retrieving a ring.
- Romeo gives Balthazar a farewell letter for his father and instructs him to leave and not to spy.
- Balthazar pretends to leave but hides nearby, later falling asleep.
Paris and Romeo’s Confrontation
- Paris recognizes Romeo as Juliet’s exiled lover and believes he intends to disrespect the tomb.
- Paris confronts Romeo, leading to a fight; Paris’s page runs for help.
- Romeo kills Paris, who requests to be laid beside Juliet in the tomb.
Romeo’s Death
- Romeo is struck by Juliet’s beauty, kisses her, and drinks poison, dying beside her after a final kiss.
Juliet’s Awakening and Death
- Friar Lawrence arrives, discovers both bodies, and Juliet awakens.
- Juliet sees Romeo dead, attempts to get poison from his lips, then stabs herself with Romeo’s dagger as people approach.
Aftermath and Reconciliation
- Paris’s page and watchmen arrive to find all dead; the prince and families are summoned.
- Montague reports his wife’s death due to heartbreak over Romeo’s exile.
- Friar Lawrence explains the truth, confirmed by Romeo’s farewell letter.
- The prince condemns the family feud, and both Capulet and Montague agree to end their hatred.
- Montague promises a golden statue of Juliet; Capulet pledges the same for Romeo.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Exile — forced absence from one's home or country.
- Watchmen — guards responsible for monitoring an area.
- Scourge — punishment or affliction.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the sequence of events leading to the deaths in Act V.
- Understand the resolution and the themes of reconciliation and tragedy.
- Prepare notes on how family conflict leads to the play’s conclusion.