Romeo and Juliet, Act 1, Scene 5 summary
Act 1, Scene 5 of 26 · 6 min to read the scene
In Act 1, Scene 5, Romeo and Juliet meet at Capulet’s feast, exchange a kiss, and discover that they belong to enemy families. Capulet prevents Tybalt from attacking Romeo, but Tybalt leaves angry, while the lovers recognize that their new attachment conflicts with family hatred.
What happens
- Servants clear the hall, and Capulet welcomes masked guests, encourages dancing, and recalls past celebrations with his cousin.
- Romeo notices Juliet and praises her beauty before he knows her name.
- Tybalt recognizes Romeo’s voice and demands his sword, but Capulet orders him to tolerate the guest.
- Tybalt leaves angry, while Romeo and Juliet compare their touch to religious devotion and kiss.
- The Nurse tells Romeo that Juliet belongs to the Capulet family, and Benvolio urges him to leave.
- Juliet asks the Nurse about Romeo and learns that the man she loves belongs to her family’s enemies.
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In this scene
What to notice
Juliet recognizes that her love conflicts with her family’s hostility. The discovery changes the meaning of her meeting with Romeo.
Quick check
Why does Tybalt leave the feast angry?
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