AQA English Literature GCSE Romeo & Juliet A Guide to Studying the Play Student Handout

One lesson of around 60 minutes duration. Use as an Introduction to the play OR as a revision aid when the play has been studied.

6 pages.

This Guide is designed for students and teachers of the play and has been written by an experienced Examiner. Used with many students across the years.

Here’s a summary of the document:

This study guide for AQA English Literature GCSE covers William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” providing an overview of the plot, characters, themes, and potential examination questions.

• Main Characters: The main characters include Romeo Montague, Juliet Capulet, Friar Laurence, Mercutio, Tybalt Capulet, the Nurse, Paris, Prince Escalus, Lord and Lady Capulet, and Lord and Lady Montague.
• Character Development Questions: Potential examination questions explore the development of characters such as Romeo, Juliet, and Friar Laurence, focusing on their growth, decisions, and impacts on the plot.
• Themes and Motifs: Key themes include fate versus free will, light and darkness, and conflict. Examination questions may ask students to analyze these themes and their significance.
• Context and Interpretation: Questions may address the social and historical context of Verona, gender and societal expectations, and the significance of the play’s ending.
• Literary Devices: Students might be asked to identify and analyze dramatic irony, foreshadowing, and poetic language used in the play.
• Conclusion of Study Guide: The guide emphasizes understanding the plot, characters, and themes for a deeper analysis and appreciation of “Romeo and Juliet”.
  *** Example Examination Question: An example question provided in the guide discusses the development of Romeo’s character, with a detailed plan on how to structure the answer.**