Romeo and Juliet ~ A Tragic Love Story

     Romeo and Juliet is one of the most famous plays written by William Shakespeare. The story features two "star-crossed lovers" who make every effort to conceal their forbidden relationship. The events happen quickly and all efforts are ended when the two take their own lives for each other. It is believed that this play was first performed between 1594 and 1595 when the demand for entertainment was high. 
     This love story is set in Verona, Italy where Romeo first met Juliet. Verona has many tourist attractions relating to Romeo and Juliet. While visiting Verona you can visit Casa de Giulietta or Osteria del Duca.
     Casa de Giulietta, Juliet's house, is a popular place that many young girls flock to. Many people believe that this was the house of the Capulet's. From the courtyard you can see the balcony where Juliet called out to Romeo, a bronze statue of Juliet, and many letters posted to the walls and doors. Girls from all around the world come to Juliet's courtyard to leave behind their love letters. Some ask for advice, some tell of heartbreak, and some just want to talk about love as they know it. The members of the Club di Giulietta have taken the time to write back as the voice of Juliet since the late 1980's.

     Another popular destination in Verona is the Osteria del Duca which is believed to be the house of Romeo Montague. While there are no written records to confirm the original owners, many visit this restaurant for the delicious meals and friendly atmosphere. 

     Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet captured the hearts of many and made Verona a popular destination for the young, young at heart, and all those who believe in true love.  

Dear Abigail...

Dear Abigail,

     I have met the love of my life. He is handsome, caring, charming, and everything else you could ask for in a man. We have one big problem though. Our families are lifelong enemies and have always been feuding. Even our friends do not get along. We want so desperately to be together but if our families found out that we have seen each other, it could cause so much trouble. Abigail, we want to marry but my family has already chosen a husband for me. I would rather die than live the rest of m life with this man I can never truly love. Abigail, please help me with this forbidden love.

Sincerely,

Beauty On The Balcony

Dear Beauty,

     I understand that love can be a very powerful thing but you both must take a moment to think of what is best for yourselves and your families. If your family was to disown you for being with your true love, could you deal with that? Would being disowned be a better choice than living without this young man you love so greatly? If you love this young man so much that you are willing to be disowned, it might be worth a try to tell your families of your love for each other.  Your relationship might even end this feud and bring your families together. If your family truly loves you, and of course they do, they will eventually accept your love for this young man and welcome him into the family. 

Dear Abigail,

     My only daughter is not at all worried about being married right away. She is nearly fourteen and I have told her many times before that when I was her age I was already her mother! I do not understand why she is not interested in marriage even when we have a handsome young man willing to marry her at once. Abigail, please tell me what I can say to convince her that marrying this young man would make her so happy.

Sincerely,

A Distressed Matchmaking Mother

Dear Matchmaking Mother,

     Have you considered the thought that the reason your daughter may not want to marry is because she does not truly love this man you have chosen for her? While you may see it as a fit match, there may be outside reasons holding your daughter back. This may not be acceptable to you but if she has her heart set on someone else she will not be fond of marrying another young man. It may be time for a heart to heart talk with your daughter. Be open and give her your full attention as she may have something important to tell you. 

Julianna Jaime

Capulet party has Verona talking!

    
     The Capulet party was the place to be this past weekend. The exclusive party had the city talking for days. Lord Capulet was spotted warmly welcoming those lucky enough to be invited early in the evening. The guests were pleasantly surprised by the lavish food, music, and decor. One guest commented, "The Capulets threw a grand party! We all enjoyed the food, music, and lively dancing." 

     Lord Capulet, his family, and all of the guests were dressed in their finest clothing. Lady Capulet wore a stunning ball gown with lavish detailing and Lady Juliet wore a simple, yet elegant gown that complemented her long black hair. Every guest wore their best clothing for this event and a group of young boys were even seen wearing masks. 

     The finest breads, cheeses, and fruits were served while guests arrived and a lovely wine was offered between dances. For the main course, guests were treated to a four-course meal with a desert to remember.

     No party is complete without dancing and the lively music made guests eager to dance the night away. Lady Juliet was seen dancing with Count Paris and later on, an unrecognized man wearing a mask.

     Lord Capulet’s’ party was such an extraordinary event that most of the guests did not leave until the early hours of the morning! Each guest left looking delighted yet exhausted. When asked what she thought of the party, Lady Capulet said, “I thought our party was a grand success. I hope every guest enjoyed the night as much as my family and I did.”  


~ Julianna Jaime

Local Announcements!

     The Capulet family is delighted to announce the happy engagement of Count Paris to their only daughter, Juliet. The two look to be married this week, as their love for each other is grand! Lord Capulet is busy planning this extravagant event for his daughter and her future husband. The ceremony previously planned for Thursday, was moved to Wednesday after Juliet mended an argument with her father and confessed she could love Count Paris.  Lord Capulet was so thrilled that he decided he should not make Count Paris wait another day to marry his daughter.

     The ceremony will only include close family and friends according to Lord Capulet. There will be the finest foods and the best music for the bride, groom, and their guests.

     Juliet and Count Paris were seen dancing together at the Capulet party and since then Count Paris has been spotted around Verona simply radiating happiness and excitement.

     Lord and Lady Capulet are thrilled that Juliet is finally being married. They think that Count Paris is the perfect match for her and they send the two all of their best wishes.  

     More news on this wedding to follow!

~Julianna Jaime