In fair Verona, where we lay our scene,
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,
Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.
The mood created by the first line of Romeo and Juliet is one of foreboding and conflict. The use of the words "ancient grudge" and "civil blood" suggests that the play will be about a long-standing feud between two families that results in violence and death. The line also establishes the setting of the play in Verona, Italy, which is known for its beauty and romance, but also its history of violence and bloodshed.