Romeo and Juliet - Russell Jackson

This study of Romeo and Juliet focuses on the play as a series of topics, rather than adopting a chronological approach. Jackson sees the play as working through a series of dilemmas and choices which derive their potency from the vividness and poetic force of the figures portrayed, which in turn depends on how those characters are represented on stage. The portrayal of the two warring households of Capulet and Montague sets up the context for the ensuing action, but the key roles are of course the lovers, about whom the script is less than informative. Are they played as adolescents or are they idealized? If the Juliet is convincingly youthful, has she also the technique and insight to succeed in her role? How can an actor deal effectively with Romeo's moodiness and swift changeability?