The main
rivalry in Shakespeare'sis that between the Montagues and Capulets. Shakespeare never gives a
reason for the feud but we know, from the very beginning that there is a great deal of hatred
involved. It sometimes spills over into the streets, as in Act I and Act III. There are several
quotes in each Act that demonstrate the intensity of the rivalry.
The opening
lines of theannounce the rivalry between the two wealthy families of Verona:
Two households, both alike in dignity
(In fair Verona,
where we lay our scene),
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,
Where civil
blood makes civil hands unclean.Inthis dispute
erupts in the streets as men of the house of Capulet,and , confront the Montague men by
"biting their thumb" at them, which is an insult. Sampson says,
Nay, as they dare. I will bite my thumb
at
them, which is disgrace to them if they bear it.
When , a Montague and's cousin, arrives on the scene,
he tries to calm...
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