Question

In 100 words or less, use Freytag’s Pyramid to analyze the structure of Romeo and Juliet.

Answer 1

The exposition: Introduces the story in Verona, there are two major families who don’t get along - Montagues and Capulets.

Rising Action: Romeo and Juliet - both from families that hate each other - fall in love and wed in a secret.

Complication of the plot: Romeo is banished from Verona.

Reversal: Juliet takes the poison, Romeo misses her message and when he comes back he sees her apparently dead.

Catastrophe: Romeo takes his own life thinking Juliet is dead. Juliet wakes up and sees what happens. She kills herself with a dagger.

Moment of last suspense: What happens next? Both families make amends and vow not to fight in respect of the dead couple.

Answer 2

The exposition: Introduces the story in Verona, there are two major families who don’t get along - Montagues and Capulets.

Rising Action: Romeo and Juliet - both from families that hate each other - fall in love and wed in a secret.

Complication of the plot: Romeo is banished from Verona.

Reversal: Juliet takes the poison, Romeo misses her message and when he comes back he sees her apparently dead.

Catastrophe: Romeo takes his own life thinking Juliet is dead. Juliet wakes up and sees what happens. She kills herself with a dagger.

Moment of last suspense: What happens next? Both families make amends and vow not to fight in respect of the dead couple.