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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Juliet tells Romeo not to swear his love by the moon?

2. In the play's first scene, Benvolio advises Romeo to _________.

3. Why is there more "peril" in Juliet's eye than in her kinsmen's swords?

4. According to the Prologue of Act 2, what lends the couple power?

5. Civil blood has made civil hands unclean because ____________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What story does the nurse tell about Juliet in Act 1, Scene 3?

2. Why are Benvolio and Mercutio teasing Romeo in Act 2, Scene 1?

3. What gesture does Sampson make toward Abram?

4. Why is Mercutio discussing Tybalt's character in Act 2, Scene 4?

5. How does Capulet respond to Paris' proposal to court Juliet?

6. Why does the nurse prolong Juliet's anxiety in Act 2, Scene 5?

7. How do Romeo and Benvolio find themselves invited to a party at the Capulet's?

8. Why does Benvolio attempt to convince Romeo to pursue other loves?

9. What is Benvolio trying to do as the fight breaks out in the square?

10. Why does Juliet wish Romeo had another name?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Romeo and Juliet are often idealized as the ultimate romantic young couple. After reading the play, write an essay in which you defend, refute, or qualify the notion that Romeo and Juliet are the ultimate teenage couple. Be sure to use evidence from the text to support your claim.

Essay Topic 2

Reflect on Romeo's description of his love for Rosaline, then for Juliet. Write an essay in which you compare and/or contrast Romeo's behavior and dialogue in relation to his love for Rosaline and Juliet, arriving at a conclusion about the significance of his love for each girl in relation to the events of the play.

Essay Topic 3

Considering common character archetypes--villain, hero, fool, sidekick, etc.--choose any character from the play and write an essay in which you explore their role as an archetype. Use evidence from the text to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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