ACT II

Scene i
Romeo manages to hide from his friends outside Capulet’s orchard and refuses to join them, despite Mercutio’s teasing.

Scene ii
This is perhaps the most famous scene in the history of English drama, known as “The Balcony Scene”. Romeo is in the orchard and sees Juliet high on her balcony. Not knowing Romeo is there, Juliet speaks about him lovingly but laments the fact that he’s a Montague. Romeo lets her know that he is there. Juliet is shocked, but the two of them engage in loving conversation. Again interrupted by the Nurse, they hastily arrange to marry.

Scene iii
It is now early on Monday morning, and Romeo goes to see his friend, Friar Laurence. When Laurence last saw Romeo he was lovesick about Rosaline, and Laurence is pleased to see the change in him – until he realizes that Romeo wants to marry some new girl. Friar Laurence agrees to marry Romeo to Juliet in the hope that the union will bring peace to the warring families.

Scene iv
This is a very happy scene and the only one in the play in which we see Romeo enjoying time with his friends. Mercutio teases Benvolio and Romeo. The Nurse arrives, and Mercutio teases her mercilessly, provoking her anger. Romeo tells the Nurse to inform Juliet that she should go to Friar Laurence’s cell that afternoon to be married.

Scene v
Juliet anxiously awaits the Nurse’s return. When she does come back, she takes a long time to reveal the message, much to the annoyance of Juliet.

Scene vi
Romeo waits for Juliet with Friar Laurence. She arrives, and the couple kiss. Romeo and Juliet are married – though, interestingly, the ceremony is not performed on stage.