Romeo and Juliet

Set against the backdrop of feuding families, this tragedy explores the intense love between two young Italians, Romeo and Juliet. Their romance is emblematic of youthful passion and rebellion, making them iconic figures in literature. Shakespeare's adaptation is rooted in earlier Italian tales, notably those by Matteo Bandello and Arthur Brooke, but he enriches the narrative with vibrant supporting characters like Mercutio and Paris. Written in the early 1590s, the play has undergone various editions, refining its text to reflect Shakespeare's original vision.