chorus

A group who says things at the same time

Escalus

Prince of Verona

Paris

a young count, kinsman to the Prince

Romeo

son of Montague

Mercutio

A kinsman to the Prince, and Romeo's close friend.

Benvolio

Montague's nephew, Romeo's cousin and thoughtful friend, he makes a genuine effort to defuse violent scenes in public places, though Mercutio accuses him of having a nasty temper in private. He spends most of the play trying to help Romeo get his mind off Rosaline, even after Romeo has fallen in love with Juliet.

Tybalt

A Capulet, Juliet's cousin on her mother's side. Vain, fashionable, supremely aware of courtesy and the lack of it, he becomes aggressive, violent, and quick to draw his sword when he feels his pride has been injured. Once drawn, his sword is something to be feared. He loathes Montagues.

Friar Lawrence

A Franciscan friar, friend to both Romeo and Juliet. Kind, civic-minded, a proponent of moderation, and always ready with a plan, Friar Lawrence secretly marries the impassioned lovers in hopes that the union might eventually bring peace to Verona. As well as being a Catholic holy man, Friar Lawrence is also an expert in the use of seemingly mystical potions and herbs.

Balthasar

Romeo's dedicated servant, who brings Romeo the news of Juliet's death, unaware that her death is a ruse.

Samson

Servant of the Capulets

Gregory

servant to Capulet

Peter

servant to Juliet's nurse

Juliet

The daughter of Capulet and Lady Capulet.

Nurse

Juliet's faithful confidante and loyal intermediary in Juliet's affair with Romeo.