
In the bustling streets of Verona, two noble houses—the Montagues and the Capulets—have been locked in a bitter, generations‑long feud that colors every corner of the city. Their rivalry spills onto the public squares, drawing in servants, soldiers, and even the local prince, who struggles to keep the peace as tempers flare and swords clash. The opening scenes crackle with heated exchanges, giving listeners a vivid sense of the volatile atmosphere that underpins the drama.
Amid this turmoil, a lavish masquerade ball hosted by the Capulets draws a crowd of curious young nobles, including the melancholic Romeo, a Montague who has just emerged from a bout of unrequited longing. When he first lays eyes on Juliet, the Capulet daughter, an unexpected spark ignites, hinting at a connection that could transcend the enmity surrounding them. Their tentative exchange, set against the backdrop of music and masked revelry, promises a tale of love blooming in the shadow of ancient hatred.
Language
fi
Duration
~2 hours (131K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2005-04-17
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1564–1616
Often called the greatest writer in the English language, this English playwright and poet created dramas and verses that still feel alive on the page and stage. His stories of ambition, love, jealousy, power, and loss continue to speak to readers centuries later.
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