In the most iconic scene in Western literature, Romeo lingers in the Capulet garden and discovers Juliet at her window. They exchange vows of love and contemplate the burden of their family names in a secret, late-night encounter.
JULIET: O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?
Deny thy father and refuse thy name;
Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,
And I'll no longer be a Capulet.
ROMEO: [Aside] Shall I hear more, or shall I speak at this?
JULIET: 'Tis but thy name that is my enemy;
Thou art thyself, though not a M
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Act II, Scene 2 — The Balcony Scene
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Benvolio attempts to cure Romeo of his lovesickness for Rosaline by suggesting they crash the Capulet's party to scout for other women. After a chance encounter with a servant reveals the guest list, Romeo agrees to go, not to find a new love, but to bask in Rosaline's beauty. The scene establishes the theme of youthful infatuation and the competitive nature of male friendship.
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