Romeo and Juliet Act 2 summary
Act 2: Prologue
According to the chorus, Romeo no longer loves Rosaline but rather Juliet. However, their chances do not look promising because they are supposed to be enemies. However, the chorus assures the audience that a combination of passion and opportunity will allow Romeo and Juliet to enjoy their new love.
Act 2: Scene 1
When the time comes to leave the Capulets', Romeo hides from Benvolio and Mercutio, refusing to leave. Mercutio tries to entice Romeo with suggestive words about Rosaline, but it fails, and he and Benvolio finally give up and leave.
Act 2: Scene 2
Romeo remains hidden as he observes Juliet from her balcony. Juliet laments Romeo's Montague status but observes that "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." Romeo intervenes, telling her that abandoning his name or perhaps being slain by the Capulets would be worth it for her sake. Juliet's nurse summons her when they swear their love to one another. Romeo offers to send a message tomorrow, and Juliet vows to respond with wedding plans. Romeo chooses to seek guidance from Friar Laurence regarding their wedding.
Act 2: Scene 3
Romeo visits the convent and meets Friar Laurence. Monk Laurence is surprised to see Romeo so early in the morning and wonders if he is still with Rosaline, but Romeo emphasizes that he is now in love with Juliet and requests that the monk secretly marry them. The priest is concerned that Romeo is acting too quickly but believes their union may bring peace between the Montagues and Capulets. He agrees to assist.
Act 2: Scene 4
Benvolio and Mercutio speculate that Tybalt has given Romeo a duel challenge. They crack sarcastic comments about Romeo leaving them for a woman last night when he shows up, and his buddies are taken aback by his positive attitude. Then, during a private conversation between Romeo and Juliet's nurse, he informs her that Friar Laurence would marry him and Juliet that afternoon. That evening, he will send the nurse to fetch a rope ladder so he can get to Juliet's room.
Act 2: Scene 5
Juliet begs the nurse for news when she returns to the Capulets. After complaining about Juliet's persistent asking, the nurse finally lets Juliet know that she should go straight to monk Laurence's chamber under the guise of going to confession since the monk will marry her and Romeo there. Juliet leaves excitedly.
Act 2: Scene 6
Romeo is warned by Friar Laurence, who is waiting in his cell, about the dangers of unrestrained love. The friar remarks in passing that this desire might not be able to endure until Juliet shows up and gives Romeo a hug. He nevertheless exhorts the joyful pair to carry out their marital vows.
