Analyzing How Language Reveals Emotion and Character in Act 3, Scene 5

We will start class today by reviewing their homework from last night. Students were asked to think about what Capulet's decision in 3.4 reveals about Juliet and to explain their thoughts in at least a paragraph (W.9-10.10). I will scan the room first to make sure that everyone has their homework and can therefore effectively participate in the discussion. Then I will ask for their conclusions: what do they understand about the characters and their development? (RL.9-10.3) This reflection on Juliet's growth will provide a basis for our reading today, since Juliet is waking up from her first night with her husband.

Here are a few examples: example 1, example 2, and example 3.

We are going to start Act 3, scene 5 in class today, but we won't have much time, so we will focus on the opening, when Juliet and Romeo playfully argue about whether they hear the lark or the nightingale. Take a look at how I will approach this section of the scene (RL.9-10.4). 

This is the last time that Romeo and Juliet see each other alive. I like to spend a few moments on this section-- the part right before Lady Capulet brings Juliet the news of her upcoming nuptials-- to reinforce the fragility of time. The couple doesn't know their future in the same way that the audience does, but they know that they will not see each other for awhile. They are desperate to stay in this moment and would pause time, if they could (RL.9-10.3). It's a good place to stop and think about modern day equivalents together (SL.9-10.1); sure, a new couple might act in the same way, but so might a family right before a soldier goes to war, or a recent graduate basking in the glow of their achievement-- before the world creeps in and demands adult responsibility. This scene shouldn't feel foreign or outdated to students because it represents a perennial aspect of humankind, as does so much of this play.