Who wrote Romeo and Juliet?
William Shakespeare wrote Romeo and Juliet, a tragedy about two young lovers from feuding families in Verona, Italy. It was probably written around 1594 to 1596.
The play tells the story of Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, who fall in love despite the bitter hatred between their families. They marry in secret, but a series of misunderstandings and tragic events leads to both of their deaths, which finally reconciles their families.
Shakespeare did not invent the story. He based it mainly on a long English poem by Arthur Brooke, The Tragical History of Romeus and Juliet, published in 1562, which drew on earlier Italian tales. Shakespeare added memorable characters, such as Mercutio and the Nurse, and powerful poetry.
Famous lines and legacy
Lines such as O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? and A rose by any other name would smell as sweet are among the most quoted in English. Wherefore means why, not where. The play has inspired ballets, operas, the musical West Side Story and many films.
Did You Know?
In Verona, visitors flock to a medieval house called Juliet's House, with a famous balcony, though it has no real link to the story.