To start the hour today, you may choose to work on your own or with a partner to finish reading Act 3, Scene 1 (we left off at the top of p. 792). On a separate sheet of lined paper, answer the following questions as you read:
- What makes Mercutio so upset that he picks a fight with Tybalt?
- Notice the stage directions [in brackets] following line 91. In your own words, describe what happens in this part of the scene.
- At first, it is obvious that Romeo and Benvolio don't realize how serious Mercutio's wound is. What do they say that prove they aren't taking this too seriously?
- There is a lot of coming and going in this scene. Notice that in lines 111-117, Romeo is alone on stage. Paraphrase in your own words what Romeo is saying here.
- When Tybalt returns after line 122, Romeo changes his attitude toward him. How does Romeo feel about Tybalt now?
- After Tybalt falls, why does Benvolio tell Romeo he must run away?
- What does Lady Capulet want the prince to do about Tybalt's death?
- Benvolio tries to explain to the prince what happened. Summarize his speech in lines 154-177.
- The prince brings up an interesting point in lines 184-185. What makes this a little more complicated than a straightforward murder? (Note: "slew" = "killed")
- Finally, what does the prince declare will happen to Romeo as a result of his actions?