Romeo and Juliet · Chapter
Scene II explained
Capulet discusses the feud with Paris and agrees to consider his suit for Juliet, but insists she is too young.
What happens
Capulet discusses the feud with Paris and agrees to consider his suit for Juliet, but insists she is too young. He invites Paris to a feast that night. Meanwhile, Romeo and Benvolio encounter a servant who cannot read the guest list; Romeo reads it and discovers Rosaline is invited. Benvolio urges Romeo to attend and compare Rosaline to other beauties, but Romeo insists no one can surpass her.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the Capulets' gr…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love and Impulse
Romeo's obsessive love for Rosaline drives his actions, while Capulet's cautious approach to Juliet's marriage contrasts with Paris's eagerness.
- Family Feud and Conflict
The Montague-Capulet feud is referenced as a barrier, with Capulet noting the penalty for breaking the peace.
- Youth and Impetuosity
Capulet argues Juliet is too young for marriage, while Romeo's impulsive love for Rosaline exemplifies youthful rashness.
Characters to notice
- Capulet
Discusses the feud with Paris, considers Paris's suit for Juliet, and arranges a feast.
- Paris
Seeks Capulet's permission to marry Juliet and is invited to the feast.
- Romeo
Lovesick for Rosaline, reads the guest list, and agrees to attend the feast.
- Benvolio
Encourages Romeo to attend the feast to compare Rosaline with other women.
- Rosaline
Mentioned as the object of Romeo's affection and as a guest at the Capulet feast.
Key passages
“My child is yet a stranger in the world; She hath not seen the change of fourteen years; Let two more summers wither in their pride, Ere we may think her ripe to be a bride.”
My daughter is still inexperienced and only thirteen; wait two more years before considering her ready for marriage.
Capulet expresses his belief that Juliet is too young to marry.
“But woo her, gentle Paris, get her heart, My will to her consent is but a part; An she agree, within her scope of choice Lies my consent and fair according voice.”
Win her affection, gentle Paris; my approval depends on her agreement, and she has the freedom to choose.
Capulet tells Paris that Juliet's consent is necessary for the marriage.
“At this same ancient feast of Capulet's Sups the fair Rosaline whom thou so lovest, With all the admired beauties of Verona: Go thither; and, with unattainted eye, Compare her face with some that I shall show, And I will make thee think thy swan a crow.”
At Capulet's feast, your beloved Rosaline will be there along with Verona's finest beauties. Go and compare her to others, and I'll make you see her as less special.
Benvolio urges Romeo to attend the feast to compare Rosaline with other women.
