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Romeo and Juliet

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1595

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Book Brief

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William Shakespeare

Romeo and Juliet

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1595
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Verona, Italy • 16th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1595

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

AD570L

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Super Short Summary

In William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the city of Verona is torn apart by a feud between the Montagues and the Capulets. Romeo, a Montague, falls in love with Juliet, a Capulet, at a masked ball, and they decide to marry in secret. However, tragedy ensues following a street fight, leading to a series of misunderstandings and ultimately the deaths of both lovers. The play explores themes of love, conflict, and fate. This text includes references to suicide and violence.

Romantic

Emotional

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,664,010 ratings

61%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet captivates with its poetic language and intense emotion, earning acclaim for its timeless portrayal of passionate love and tragic fate. Criticism often targets the impulsive nature of the protagonists' decisions, but the play's enduring themes and vibrant characterization continue to resonate deeply with audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Romeo and Juliet?

A reader who enjoys Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare would appreciate classic literature, tragic romance, and poetic language. Fans of intense, dramatic stories with deep emotional and societal conflicts, similar to Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre or Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles, will be captivated.

4.2

2,664,010 ratings

61%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Juliet

The only daughter of Lord and Lady Capulet and the play's female protagonist. At nearly 14 years old, she is on the cusp of womanhood and falls in love with Romeo Montague. Her story includes themes of bravery, loyalty, and the challenges of love.

The only son of Lord and Lady Montague and the play’s male protagonist. Likely in his mid-teens, he embodies youthful passion and falls deeply in love with Juliet. He is characterized by sincerity, impulsiveness, and an unwavering devotion to those he loves.

A close friend to Romeo with a mercurial nature, known for his wit and playful use of language. Although not part of the Montague or Capulet families, he plays a pivotal role in the progression of the story.

Juliet’s closest friend and caretaker, providing comic relief and a maternal presence. She supports Juliet’s relationship with Romeo, though her understanding of love is more pragmatic and physical.

Romeo’s cousin and a peacekeeper among the play's characters. He tries to temper the passions of Romeo and the spontaneity of Mercutio, although he often struggles against the force of human emotion.

Juliet’s hot-tempered cousin, known for his pride and skill in dueling. His aggression and loyalty to the Capulet family contribute to the tension and conflict in the story.

A father figure to Romeo who advises moderation and helps the young lovers in their secret marriage. His decisions are sometimes ill-advised, highlighting the limits of rationality in the face of strong emotions.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Verona, Italy • 16th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1595

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

AD570L

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