Scene 1---- The fight between the houses of Montague and Capulet results in a street fight between the two families. The ruler of Verona, Prince Escalus, is mad about the latest disruption of the peace by the Montagues and Capulets and declares that the penalty for another fight will be death.
Scene 2---- When Paris asks Capulet for Juliet's hand in marriage, Capulet says that Juliet, who is 13, is too young; but he gives his permission if Juliet wants to marry him. He gives a party that night at which Paris can compare Juliet to other ladies. The servant is sent with a list to invite people to the party, but he can not read. He meets Benvolio and Romeo in the street and asks if he could help him read the names on the list. Rosaline's name is on the list and Benvolio convinces Romeo to go to the party to compare her with other ladies. Romeo agrees, but he says he will always be true to Rosaline.
Scene 3---- Juliet's mother prepares her for the marriage proposal by Count Paris. Juliet is not sure she is ready for marriage but says she will think about marrying Paris.
Scene 4---- The three friends, Romeo, Benvolio, and Mercutio, are disguised in masks and costumes to avoid being recognized as they make their way to Capulet's party. In order to perk up Romeo's spirits, Mercutio tells him about a dream he had about a tiny fairy queen. Romeo is not interested in Mercutio's dream. He has a feeling something bad will happen tonight because he went to the party.
Scene 5---- Capulet welcomes Romeo and his friends and invites the guests to dance. As Romeo watches the dancers, he notices a very beautiful girl. When he asks a servant about her, Tybalt, a Capulet, recognizes Romeo's voice and becomes very angry. Capulet forbids him to fight with Romeo. Romeo and Juliet speak briefly together and immediately fall in love. After they have parted , they both learn they are the heirs of the families that are fighting.