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How did the Elizabethan audience react to Romeo and Juliet in act 3 scene 5?

The Elizabethan audience during act 3 scene 5 of Romeo and Juliet would have primarily reacted with shock, pity, outrage, and suspense. Here's a summary of their potential responses:

1. Shock and Disbelief:

- The sudden turn of events, with Romeo and Juliet being forced into a situation where they must be apart for five days or face Juliet's death, would shock the audience.

2. Pity and Sympathy:

- The audience would feel pity for Romeo and Juliet, who are facing unimaginable heartbreak due to their passionate love and cruel circumstances.

3. Outrage and Anger:

- They would likely feel outrage towards Juliet's father and the rigid societal expectations that are tearing the young couple apart.

4. Suspense and Curiosity:

- The audience would be in suspense about what will happen to Romeo and Juliet during their separation and how they will manage to overcome these challenges.

5. Parallels to Real-life Experiences:

- Some members of the Elizabethan audience might have related to the play's themes of forbidden love, the power of fate, and the consequences of impulsive decisions.

It's important to remember that audience reactions during Shakespeare's time were likely more vocal than in contemporary theater settings, with applause, cheers, laughter, and emotional outbursts being common.

Stage Acting

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