romeo and juliet song assignment

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Soundtrack Project

I.1—“ghost in this house” by allison krauss.

Below is a sample of the song.

Additionally, a video on YouTube is available as are the lyrics to the song

Example Paragraph

Both Romeo and the speaker in the song attempt to shut out the pain by shutting themselves in their own homes. For example, in discussing the situation with Benvolio, Montague explains that

Away from the light steals home [Romeo, ]my heavy son, And private in his chamber pens himself, Shuts up his windows, locks far daylight out And makes himself an artificial night: (I.1.128-131)

Romeo’s heartbreak has caused him to retreat entirely from society. He is unable to deal with everyday life, and in doing so, shows himself something of a slave to love. Emotion rules Romeo, and he has become something like a ghost in his own house. Similarly, Allison Krauss’s words echo something that Montague is thinking, but they are more aptly from Romeo’s point of view. Like Romeo, Krauss sings of “keep[ing] the lights down.” They are so emotionally devastated that even the light hurts their hearts. Retreat is the only answer for both of them. Finally, both the song and the play use metaphors of smoke as well. Romeo speaks of his unrequited love for Rosaline: “Love is a smoke raised with the fume of sighs; / Being purged, a fire sparkling in lovers’ eyes.” (I.1.187, 8) Krauss speaks of a similar feeling: “I’m just a whisper of smoke / I’m all that’s left of two hearts on fire / That once burned out of control” In her case, the love was returned but eventually died out. For Romeo, however, there is only the longing.

Notes and Thoughts

Notice that this is a Schaffer model paragraph, but I am using very simple sentences to highlight that. Additionally, notice that one element of the Schaffer model is inadequate or even missing: which element is it?

I don’t pick up the mail I don’t pick up the phone I don’t answer the door I’d just as soon be alone I don’t keep this place up I just keep the lights down I don’t live in these rooms I just rattle around

I’m just a ghost in this house I’m just a shadow upon these walls As quietly as a mouse I haunt these halls I’m just a whisper of smoke I’m all that’s left of two hearts on fire That once burned out of control You took my body and soul I’m just a ghost in this house

I don’t care if it rains I don’t care if it’s clear I don’t mind staying in There’s another ghost here He sits down in your chair And he shines with your light And he lays down his head On your pillow at night

I’m just a ghost in this house I’m just a shadow upon these walls I’m living proof of the damage Heartbreak does I’m just a whisper of smoke I’m all that’s left of two hearts on fire That once burned out of control And took my body and soul I’m just a ghost in this house Oh, I’m just a ghost in this house

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3 Aligned Song Pairings for an Innovative Romeo and Juliet Activity

How do YOU introduce students to Romeo and Juliet? Are you looking for an engaging Romeo and Juliet activity to start, center, and end your unit? 

If you are like me–tired of fighting the never-ending battle of AirPods in my students’ ears–then, I have advice for you. Stop fighting it, and embrace it. Incorporate activities where students have the chance to analyze music. 

Using music will boost student engagement AND give you a much-needed break from pleading, “Put away your headphones!” It will also help demystify Shakespearean language and the stigma that all of his works are difficult, boring, or irrelevant to our students’ worlds.

Use the 3 contemporary song pairings below to incorporate music when teaching Romeo and Juliet. Each diverse song is used as a Romeo and Juliet activity to start, center, and end your unit.

These song selections will diversify your Romeo and Juliet unit, as will these inclusive text pairings. You can find other great ideas for teaching Romeo and Juliet here !

Pre-Reading Romeo and Juliet Activity

“rewrite the stars” by zendaya and zac efron (4:05).

Use this popular song as an effective Romeo and Juliet activity for introducing the concept of forbidden love. Before I begin teaching Romeo and Juliet, my students play the Introduction to Shakespeare Escape Room to get the Shakespearean basics. Then, they are introduced–visually–to the Montague and Capulet households. 

We discuss the idea of family feuds by examining companies that are “both alike in dignity.” 

✨ Coca-Cola versus Pepsi

✨ Netflix versus Hulu 

✨ Taco Bell versus Del Taco

✨ Nikes versus Adidas

✨ Sephora versus Ulta

I even have students come up with “feuding” companies of their own to analyze (they have TOO much fun with that part).

We discuss how each company has… 

⭐ A shared purpose or objective yet they are considered competitors 

⭐ A loyal fan base who will only ever purchase from their preferred company 

To conclude, I ask students to analyze the effects of having two companies that are both alike in dignity. I ask them to consider the effects on… 

⭐ the employees, 

⭐ the consumers, 

⭐ and the business itself.

Then, when I introduce them to the feuding Montagues and Capulets, it clicks! They understand… 

⭐ What it means for both families to be alike in dignity

⭐ That this feud will negatively impact everyone involved

⭐ That each family has a loyal “fan base” even if the characters are not blood-related

All that is left is to introduce them to the concept of forbidden love!

Cue ✨Zendaya and Zac Efron.✨

The music video for “Rewrite the Stars” shows students the fear of forbidden love as Romeo and Juliet experience. Have students analyze the lyrics AND the body language, props, staging, etc. of Zendaya’s and Efron’s characters to understand the tension forbidden love creates. 

Use it as an additional opportunity to teach the importance of stage directions and movement in plays and movies! If your students are acting out Romeo and Juliet (10/10 recommend), then this will be doubly useful to your students. 

The Secondary English Coffee Shop has easy-to-implement ideas (and FREE SHAKESPEAREAN LANGUAGE BOOKMARKS ) for teaching any Shakespeare play!

Mid-Unit Romeo and Juliet Activity: Creative Writing

“nothing is lost (you give me strength)” by the weeknd (4:23)*.

Since reading Shakespeare can feel overwhelming, I find it valuable to pause mid-way through our reading and engage in some creative writing to SHAKE things up. Did you see what I did there with the pun?

As another Romeo and Juliet activity, use this diverse song selection to practice characterization and citing textual evidence! I use this song to model Romeo’s willingness to wage a familial feud just to be with Juliet. Students cite and compare evidence from the speaker of the song and Romeo. 

We focus our analysis on the diction and tone throughout the lyrics and how—together—they communicate a fierce, undeniable dedication to another. Then, students analyze excerpts where Romeo similarly confesses his dedication to Juliet.

I pair this practice with this ready-to-go resource that teaches students how to integrate and paraphrase quotes specifically for Romeo and Juliet . Bonus! It comes with bell ringers to use as a daily Romeo and Juliet activity. 

Then, I let the creative writing fun begin. I ask students to create either a chorus or a brief scene that declares their undying love for SOMETHING (not someone).

The objective of their writing is to characterize their speaker as someone who will do anything for this “something.” This has to be my FAVORITE part of this Romeo and Juliet activity.

I provide them with a funny, personal example of how I would stop at nothing for a bowl of ramen. Warning: prepare for a lot of dedications to Hot Cheetos. Who can blame them?  

*One nuance worth mentioning is that this song is a part of a movie soundtrack. Students may struggle to make the shift from the song’s original application. I find it important to preface this to students. In doing so, they are better able to assess its new potential meanings.

After-Reading Romeo and Juliet Activity

“the story” by conan gray (4:05).

Before I begin teaching Romeo and Juliet, I ask myself: what lessons can the story of Romeo and Juliet teach? I want this answer to always be relevant and tangible for my students.

From my teaching experience, students universally–and unfortunately–connect to the idea of opposing forces. Therefore, I use “The Story” as a means for students to analyze the theme of individual versus society.  

Students can go on a scavenger hunt to find all the various “us versus them” examples in the song. Then, students will compare these issues to that of Romeo and Juliet. 

I also have asked students to reflect on a time when they themselves felt an “other” was against them. In case students are stuck, I provide them with some generic examples: 

⭐ An adult implementing a rule they do not agree with but have to follow (i.e., a curfew, dress code, etc.)

⭐ Folks not accepting others for whom they love 

I use this as an opportunity to be vulnerable with my students about my coming out journey and being disowned by my family. If you are comfortable sharing a moment where you battled an “individual versus society” issue, I encourage you to be vulnerable with them as well.

This turns into a larger writing assessment, followed by students playing the Romeo and Juliet Review Escape Room . 

Final Thoughts

I feel it is important that we do everything we can to diversify any Shakespeare unit (whether that is by choice or a part of your curriculum). 

In doing so through music, students positively see themselves represented (unlike most LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities in Shakespeare’s works–if they exist at all). Students are also given the opportunity to make relevant connections to their world and the reading.

Make music the center of your entire Romeo and Juliet unit by reading it set to pop songs ! This resource adapts Romeo and Juliet through the use of pop songs. The adaptable unit takes one month to complete (shorter or longer if need be).

It is wonderful for engaging all students and‌ supporting struggling learners. 

You can also find even more creative teaching ideas for Romeo and Juliet over at The Secondary English Coffee Shop!

If you implement a suggested Romeo and Juliet activity for the beginning, middle, and/or end of your unit, please share your feedback, successes, and questions with me!

Further Reading...

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Building Drama Know-How in ELA

Choosing Digital Escape Rooms for Secondary ELA

7 more ya fantasy book recommendations, guiding students to success in an inclusive short story unit for secondary ela.

10 Activities for Teaching Romeo and Juliet

z Romeo and Juliet is one of those classic pieces of literature I think everyone has read. Even students who haven’t read the Shakespeare play have probably heard of the story or will relate to the plot as it has been retold in various films and literature. If you need some fresh ideas before you start this unit, read on. 

Here are 10 activities for teaching Romeo and Juliet

1. teaching romeo and juliet: relatable bell ringers.

If you’re going to focus on a Shakespeare play, you must go all in. Immersing students into a unit from start to finish is such a perfect way to help students understand a topic in-depth. Start off each class with these Shakespeare Bell Ringers . Each one includes a famous Shakespearean quote and a quick writing prompt. Students will explore various writing styles based on the quote.

2. Teaching Romeo and Juliet: Character Focus

The second organizer focuses on tracing emotions and motivations throughout the play. It’s a creative way for students to organize the play’s characters and is also a great resource for ESL students and struggling readers. 

3. Teaching Romeo and Juliet: Get Interactive

I can remember interactive notebooks becoming all the rage. And while the paper notebooks are creative, a motivator for some students, and it’s generally pretty easy to put an interactive spin on old ideas already at hand. Having a digital version is just one more layer to add something unique to the interactive notebook. My digital notebook resource can work as its own unit and includes analysis activities covering characters, symbols, major events, writing tasks, and response questions. Digital notebooks are great for classrooms trying to limit paper use, use more technology, prepare students for tech demands, and for any classes that need to work with mobile options.

4. Teaching Romeo and Juliet: Engaging Writing Tasks

Help students understand and analyze the play by giving them unique writing assignments. Have students explore different writing styles, analyze universal themes, and study character development. My Writing Tasks resource does all this and more. Each act has its own unique writing assignment, and I’ve included brainstorming organizers for each. You’ll be able to use this with differentiated instruction, and there are several additional resources and organizers included. 

5. Read “Cloze”ly

Prep passages for students to summarize to help them understand events from the play. This is an ideal activity for review, comprehension, or even assessment. Cloze reading is an ideal way to help students understand what is happening. Cut your prep time down by using this resource, with 6 passages ready to use AND written in modern-day English. Use as an individual assignment or collaborative activity. 

6. Use Office Supplies

Increase student engagement with hands-on activities using sticky notes. You can use various colors to coordinate different aspects of study (literary elements, major events, character development, etc). It’s an easy and quick way for students to organize thoughts and notes, and the bits of information can be manipulated and moved around for different assignments. Students can gather relevant information for various essays, or can organize their sticky notes in a way that makes sense to them (by topic, or chronologically, as an example). Check out my Sticky Note Literary Analysis activity that includes 12 sticky note organizers. 

7. Make Use of Bookmarks

Consider a foldable version like this one where you can jam-pack a variety of questions, vocabulary, literary analysis and more. These are foldable, interactive, fun, engaging – and it saves you time passing out one activity to be used throughout the play. 

8. Plan an Escape 

Escape rooms live up to the hype. Challenge your students with a fun and engaging review escape challenge. Have students work together in groups to complete collaboratively and spark authentic discussion. This escape room activity includes 40 timeline events to sort from the play correctly.

9. Don’t Forget Vocabulary

Vocabulary is an important aspect of understanding any work, but Shakespeare is on a whole other level. In addition to reading an older version of English in poetic form, students must grasp key vocabulary to understand the play more deeply. Engage your students with hands-on activities to learn vocabulary, whether that be through graphic organizers, visual dictionaries, or word puzzles. Check out my ready-to-print vocabulary packet that includes word lists, puzzles, organizers and quizzes for the entire play. 

10. Practice Annotations

Start at the very beginning with an engaging activity for the prologue. This will allow students to explore the Shakespearean language and the set-up to the drama that is Romeo and Juliet’s tragedy. Using this resource , students will read and annotate the prologue, be introduced to Elizabethan English, and have context and background information before reading the play. Students then will rewrite the prologue in modern-day English following the same sonnet form. I love having students explore language, and this activity fits perfectly into the unit. 

If you’re starting fresh with activities to fill a unit, or you’re looking to refresh your tried-and-true activities, check out my 5-week unit plan for Romeo and Juliet here . It’s full of goodies including a pacing guide, pre-reading activities, bookmarks, vocabulary, passages, writing tasks, essays, review activities, and more. 

Put a new spin on the classic tragedy by refreshing your activities and finding new ways to present to students. Just a few simple updates and changes can keep students engaged and help them relate to the material. I love seeing what others do in their classrooms, so please share your favorite ideas in the comments below. 

Is Teaching Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet Still Revelant?

In an earlier blog post , I discuss if teaching Shakespeare is still relevant.

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The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Students will love creating a Romeo and Juliet storyboard to retell the classic story, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. They can also extend their learning by creating a storyboard for a Shakespeare scene and dive deep into character studies and literary elements, and begin to develop an understanding of the structure of a play . Check out our detailed lesson plan about Romeo and Juliet and activities below for inspiration. These detailed lesson plans and projects are aligned with all four ELA Common Core standards, and can be used as a Romeo and Juliet introduction, and during the entire book study. Storyboard That has provided a Romeo and Juliet storyboard template and a completed example for all activities to give students a starting point.

Student Activities for Romeo and Juliet

Inspire and engage students with the epic story by William Shakespeare with Storyboard That's Romeo and Juliet lesson plan. Romeo and Juliet is often the first Shakespeare play students are introduced to, and it's one that's constantly being retold. An introduction to Romeo and Juliet can occur in many ways as there are movies, graphic novels and shortened versions of the play available, making the classic tale accessible to all readers!

The tale of feuding families and star-crossed lovers, captivates audiences of all ages and prompts discussions about family, love and free will.

Essential Questions for Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

• What is love?
• Would you go against all your friends and family to follow your heart?
• Are our actions determined by fate, by chance, or by our free will?
• What are some lessons that we can learn from Romeo and Juliet in today’s world?

The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet Summary

Please note this summary comprises the Romeo and Juliet full story and therefore contains spoilers !

The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is about two star­-crossed lovers from feuding families, who take their own lives. Through a series of unfortunate events, fate and chance turn against the lovers. Romeo, a Montague, and Juliet, a Capulet, meet at a party thrown by Juliet’s family. Romeo only attends because his friend says it will help Romeo get over a girl, Rosaline. Romeo had loved Rosaline, but she rejected him. When Romeo lays eyes on Juliet, he forgets he ever had other devotions. Later that evening, he sneaks to Juliet’s balcony and professes his love. Juliet, who has also fallen in love with Romeo, asks him to make a serious gesture, to prove his love. He asks her to marry him, and she agrees.

Using Friar Lawrence and Juliet’s Nurse as intermediaries, wedding plans commence. However, Tybalt, a Capulet, goes out in search for the Montagues who crashed the party. A duel ensues, and Romeo’s best friend, Mercutio, is killed, causing Romeo to slay Tybalt. The Prince of Verona had previously warned the quarrelers that if one more disturbance was made, those involved would be put to death. However, because Mercutio was the Prince’s kinsman, Romeo is exiled instead of killed.

Juliet finds out that Romeo has killed her cousin and is devastated, not by the loss of life, but over the banishment of her lover. They again devise a plan to be together, but an obstacle presents itself: Juliet’s father has arranged for her to marry Count Paris in two days time. Friar Lawrence convinces Juliet to take a sleeping potion to appear dead, and promises to send word to Romeo.

The plan is for Romeo to wake her in her tomb, and take her away with him. The plan begins as discussed, however, a dramatic irony unfolds: Romeo does not receive the letter intended for him about the Friar’s plan. Instead, he hears Juliet is dead and decides to enter her grave and take his own life. He goes to an apothecary and purchases poison. When he reaches the tomb, he encounters Paris, who is also there to mourn Juliet. Upset, Romeo kills Paris and enters the tomb, drinking the poison.

Moments later, Juliet awakes and finds Romeo dead. Distraught, she takes the dagger from his belt and stabs herself. In the end, Friar Lawrence confesses the story to the Capulets and Montagues. Knowing that their enmity was the reason for the senseless loss of lives, the two men agree to end their longstanding feud.

About the Author

William Shakespeare is perhaps the most well-known playwright of all time. Born in April of 1564 in a small city in England, little is known about his childhood life. He had two older sisters and three younger brothers, and enjoyed learning about history and poetry in elementary school. When he was older, William married Anne Hathaway, with whom he had three children.

William was part of Lord Chamberlain’s Men, an acting company in England. He wrote plays and acted for the company, and his plays became very popular in the city. As he became more and more well-known, Shakespeare wrote more and more plays, averaging about a play and a half per year and totalling 37 plays in his lifetime!

Shakespeare died in 1616 at the age of 52, but is still known as one of the most influential writers of the English language. His works are the most often quoted, second only to the Bible!

Discussion Questions to Use in Pairs or Groups

These questions may be used during reading, or upon completion of the play. While it is best to get students discussing what they’ve read, these questions can also be answered individually in a reader’s notebook. It is always such a joy to hear the different opinions that students have, even though they are reading the same information!

• The Montague and the Capulet families have been feuding for years, yet the audience does not know why. Discuss with your group some possible reasons why they may be fighting for so long. Why do you think Shakespeare chose not to include this information in the play?
• When Juliet refuses to marry Paris, she goes against her parents’ wishes. Would you have done the same thing? Is it okay for her parents to try to force her to do something she didn’t want to do?
• Romeo is very different from the other male characters in the play. In what ways is he different? Be sure to be specific, citing which character and how they are different.
• Was the love between Romeo and Juliet actually real, or were they just infatuated with each other? Be sure to give examples from the text to support your answer.
• What roles do the Nurse and the Friar play in the relationship between Romeo and Juliet? What roles do they play in the deaths of the two teenagers? Should they be punished? Be sure to explain your reasoning using text evidence.
• Who, if anyone, do you think should be punished for Romeo's and Juliet's deaths? Why?
• Who is your favorite character in this play? Do you relate to this person? Why did you choose this person? Be sure to give examples from the text to support your answers.
• Romeo and Juliet is a tragic love story that is very commonly taught during the high school years in school. Why do you think this is? How can teenagers relate to their story, even though it was written hundreds of years ago?
• Shakespeare wrote all kinds of plays, and chose to write Romeo and Juliet as a tragedy. Explain why it is a tragedy, aside from the obvious reason! What could the families have done different to change the fate of the young lovers?
• Think about the books, television shows, and movies that are popular today. Are any of these stories similar to what happened to Romeo and Juliet? Compare and contrast with your group, using examples from the play.

Romeo and Juliet Project Ideas and Romeo and Juliet Activities

Storyboard That is an excellent tool for students to create fun and engaging projects as a culminating activity after finishing a novel or a play. In addition to our premade activities, here are some ideas that teachers can customize and assign to students to spark creativity in individual students, pairs, or small groups for a final project. Several of these ideas include Storyboard That templates that can be printed out or copied into your teacher dashboard and assigned digitally. All final projects can be printed out, presented as a slide show, or, for an extra challenge, as an animated gif!

• For Groups: Choose a scene from the play to reenact it to the class. Use the traditional storyboard layout to plan out your scenes. You can add text to your storyboards, or simply use the cells to visualize each scene of your play.
• Using the timeline layout, retell the play in chronological order. Our timeline layout gives you the options to include year, month, day, and even hour! You may also choose to omit these altogether.
• Choose a setting from the story and create a map of the setting using the small poster or worksheet layout. Use free form or other text boxes to include a key or label the different parts of the map.
• Using one of Storyboard That’s board game templates , create a game based on the play for your classmates to play!
• For Groups: Divide the scenes of the play amongst your group members. Each member of the group creates a storyboard for their assigned scene. This can be done as a collaborative project, or separately for longer plays and novels.
• Using the worksheet layout and Storyboard That’s worksheet assets, create a test or a quiz for other students in the class. You can create all kinds of questions such as multiple choice, short answer, and even matching! When you are done, be sure to make an answer key.
• Using one of Storyboard That’s biography poster templates, create a poster about the character of your choice. Be sure to include important biographical features such as: place and date of birth, family life, accomplishments, etc.
• Choose a scene from the play and create a storyboard that shows that scene from another character’s point of view. For an extra challenge, use the T-chart layout to compare the original point of view with another character’s point of view!
• Create a book jacket of the play using one of Storyboard That’s book jacket templates. Use Storyboard That art to create the cover, and write a summary of the story on the back, just like real books have!
• Using one of Storyboard That’s social media templates as a starting point, create a social media page for one or more of the characters in the play. Be sure to think how the character thinks while creating this page.
• Create a scrapbook page made by one of the characters in the play. Storyboard That has lots of premade templates that you can use as is, or change to fit your character’s personality! Check out our scrapbook templates today!

Buy Romeo and Juliet on Amazon

Other Plays Written by William Shakespeare

• All’s Well That Ends Well
• A Midsummer Night's Dream
• As You Like It
• Love’s Labour’s Lost
• Much Ado About Nothing
• The Taming of the Shrew
• The Tempest
• The Tragedy of Antony and Cleopatra
• The Tragedy of Hamlet
• The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
• The Tragedy of Macbeth
• The Tragedy of Othello
• The Tragedy of Richard III
• Twelfth Night

How to Analyze Characters in Romeo and Juliet with Storyboard That

Choose a character.

Select a character from Romeo and Juliet that you want to analyze. This could be Romeo, Juliet, Mercutio, Tybalt, or any other character that interests you.

Gather Information

Read and gather information about the chosen character from the play. Pay attention to their actions, dialogue, relationships, and how they contribute to the overall story.

Create a Character Profile

Use Storyboard That's a biography poster template to create a character profile for the chosen character. Include details such as their background, personality traits, relationships, motivations, and key moments in the play.

Identify Key Quotes

Select key quotes from the play that highlight the character's traits, emotions, or important moments. Use the storyboard cells to illustrate the scenes or moments associated with each quote.

Analyze the Character

Analyze the character's development throughout the play. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, conflicts, and how they change or stay consistent. Use textual evidence from the play to support your analysis.

Reflect and Draw Conclusions

Reflect on the character's significance in the play and draw conclusions about their role in the story. Consider their impact on other characters, the themes of the play, and the overall message conveyed through their actions and decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Romeo and Juliet

What are the main themes of romeo and juliet .

It is clear that the most important theme of this play is love. Some other themes that are evident throughout the story are family, conflict, and loyalty.

Who are the main characters in Romeo and Juliet ?

The main characters are Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. They are in love teenagers from two feuding families. Other main characters in the story are Friar Laurence, the Nurse, Mercutio, and Tybalt.

How did Romeo and Juliet die?

When they realize they cannot live without each other, Romeo and Juliet decide to take poison and take their own lives. Romeo dies, but Juliet simply falls into a coma and eventually wakes up to see Romeo dead next to her. Juliet then stabs herself and dies.

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25 Of The Best Songs About Romeo And Juliet

Ah, the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet. This Italian couple whose families are sworn enemies has inspired countless movies, plays, novels, and, yes, even music.

Romeo and Juliet, whom William Shakespeare created, are perfect subjects for songs. These focus on the idea of star-crossed lovers and their passionate love. Their untimely deaths and enduring love are fertile ground for songwriters to explore.

Today, we have compiled 25 of the best songs about Romeo and Juliet. Read on and discover a rich musical tapestry woven around these lovers.

Table of Contents

1. “Romeo And Juliet” By Dire Straits

With so many songs written about Romeo and Juliet, one by Dire Straits leads our list. “Romeo and Juliet” was released in 1980 from their album Making Movies .

While the song draws on the themes of Shakespeare’s play, this song with “Romeo and Juliet” in the title has a twist. It’s a modern-day tale of Romeo’s unrequited love for Juliet. Despite his enduring love, she treats him as “just another one of [her] deals.”

Compared to the mutual love in Shakespeare’s narrative, the song portrays a one-sided love story. They are doomed not by their families’ hatred but by their inability to stay together.

2. “Love Story” By Taylor Swift

In our next song, “Love Story,” Taylor Swift draws inspiration from Romeo and Juliet’s tale but with a more optimistic narrative. Her song and the classic tale are similar in that both are about forbidden love. But “Love Story” presents a different ending.

In Swift’s song, the young lovers defy their families’ disapproval. Even with her father warning him to stay away from her, nothing could keep them apart. They meet secretly and have plans of eloping.

Unlike the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, the song offers a happy ending for everyone. It symbolizes Swift’s hopeful perspective on love.

3. “Juliet” By Robin Gibb

Like the classic tale, Robin Gibb ‘s “Juliet” explores the theme of forbidden love. Gibbs portrays himself as a modern-day Romeo, enamored by a wealthy girl he considers his Juliet.

The song is about the tragedy of unexpressed love and the intensity of hidden passion. The narrator, unlike Romeo in the play, has a hard time expressing his feelings to his Juliet. His past heartbreak keeps him from opening up and showing care.

Gibb’s “Juliet,” in essence, is a fresh take on Romeo and Juliet’s classic tale. It captures the essence of forbidden love and the tragic fate of the star-crossed lovers.

4. “Romeo Had Juliette” By Lou Reed

Another reinterpretation of the classic Romeo and Juliet is Lou Reed ‘s “Romeo Had Juliette.” Released in 1989, the song is set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape.

The song is a depiction of two lovers navigating their love amid societal chaos and crime. In a world they live in, their characters shine through. Romeo is portrayed as a man with a rebellious spirit longing for love and adventure. Juliette, meanwhile, embodies innocence and vulnerability.

The song perfectly captures the struggles of these lovers as they navigate a city. The end of their love story is far from that of the classic tale, but it presents a more realistic take on Romeo and Juliet .

5. “Not Romeo Not Juliet” By Bryan Adams

Released in 2004, Bryan Adams ‘ “Not Romeo Not Juliet” echoes the theme of young love in Shakespeare’s classic. However, Adams’ song focuses more on the challenges of modern love.

“Not Romeo Not Juliet” is about a young couple trying to find their way in the world. They encounter struggles and difficulties, supporting each other through it all. Unlike Romeo and Juliet, the couple battles external and societal pressures.

The title suggests that the couple’s story is far from that of Romeo and Juliet. They will not have the same ending as the star-crossed lovers.

6. “(Just Like) Romeo & Juliet” By The Reflections

In “(Just Like) Romeo & Juliet,” The Reflections draw inspiration from Shakespeare’s play. The song uses the story as a metaphor for a relationship that’s filled with intense passion.

The song’s focus is not on the tragic end of Romeo and Juliet. Rather, it centers on the initial stages of their love story, filled with excitement and romance. It captures the feeling of young love and belief in destiny.

In addition, this song with Romeo and Juliet in the lyrics evokes feelings of nostalgia and sentimentality. It celebrates love and emphasizes the joy of falling in love.

7. “Romeo” By Dolly Parton And Friends Ft. Billy Ray Cyrus

Up next is the star-studded song “Romeo” by Dolly Parton . She teams up with a host of women, such as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Pam Tillis, Kathy Mattea, and Tanya Tucker. They have their eyes set on their Romeo, Billy Ray Cyrus .

This playful song focuses on Romeo from Shakespeare’s play. However, he isn’t someone caught in a family feud. He is portrayed as a charming man, “a cross between a movie star / and a hero in a book.” No wonder the women are swooning over him.

Essentially, “Romeo” is more about flirtation and attraction, far from the tragic story of Romeo and Juliet. At its core, it’s an entertaining take on the Romeo character.

8. “Romeo Loves Juliet” By Rick Astley

The pop song “Romeo Loves Juliet” by Rick Astley draws parallels to the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet. It was released in 2001 as part of his album Keep It Turned On .

While the song does not retell the classic, it uses the characters to explore themes of love. It describes Juliet in a contemporary setting. She is portrayed as a modern woman enjoying her independence. She sips her herbal tea and talks on her mobile phone.

This is a stark contrast to the naive Juliet in Shakespeare’s play. Nevertheless, the core theme of love remains the same.

9. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” By Blue Öyster Cult

The classic rock song “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult delves into themes of love and death, much like the story of Romeo and Juliet. The reaper is a metaphor for death, which the song suggests should not be feared.

The reference to Romeo and Juliet appears in the lines “Romeo and Juliet / are together in eternity … / 40, 000 men and women everyday (like Romeo and Juliet).” Just like in Shakespeare’s play, the song portrays love as something that transcends mortal boundaries.

Take note, though, that the message isn’t tragic. Rather, it talks about accepting mortality and the eternal nature of love.

10. “Romeo & Juliet” By Kasey Chambers Ft. Foy Vance

Drawing directly from Shakespeare’s play, “Romeo & Juliet” by Kasey Chambers , featuring Foy Vance , is a retelling of the tragic story. The song makes specific references to the characters and their doomed fate.

The song begins with “When he said my name, ‘Juliet,'” which indicates the intimate relationship between the characters. The line “He tried to forget that he died in vain for a Capulet” suggests Romeo’s tragic end, who died for his love for Juliet, a member of the rival Capulet family.

In essence, the song focuses on the emotional impact of the couple’s story. It talks about the depth of their love, the challenge of separation, and the tragedy of their deaths.

11. “Your Kind Of Woman” By Supertunes

Nigerian singer-songwriter Supertunes was inspired by the connection between Romeo and Juliet. His song “Your Kind of Woman” reflects the attraction between these characters.

In particular, the line “Be my Juliet oh baby” directly references the longing Romeo feels for Juliet. The narrator is on a quest for the perfect love, searching for a woman like her. This is embodied in the line that says, “I have been searching for your kind of woman.”

The song highlights the intoxicating attraction that Romeo and Juliet share. It mirrors the initial stages of their relationship, where they are drawn to each other.

12. “Romeo” By Wipers

In the post-punk song “Romeo,” the punk rock band Wipers takes inspiration from the turbulent side of love. The titular character is described as someone who walks the city at night while the tall buildings cast shadows “into his burning eyes.”

This could symbolize the emotional struggle Romeo experiences in the play. Remember that he has to deal with the dangerous rivalry between his and Juliet’s families. At the same time, he has to keep their love affair secret.

At its core, “Romeo” uses the character from Shakespeare’s play to explore the complexities, struggles, and dark aspects of love.

13. “The Cinema Show” By Genesis

Released in 1973, “The Cinema Show” by Genesis uses Romeo and Juliet as metaphors in exploring modern love and the daily grind of life. The song is about the couple getting ready for a date at a cinema show.

The lyrics find Juliet as a typical woman clearing her morning meal. Romeo, on the other hand, is looking forward to an intimate night with her after the date.

The song subtly critiques the modern perception of love. It suggests that it’s more about physical attraction than understanding and knowing the other person more.

 14. “Roméo Kiffe Juliette” By Grand Corps Malade

Translated as “Romeo Loves Juliet,” “Roméo Kiffe Juliette” is a modern adaptation of the play. However, this one by Grand Corps Malade has a refreshing twist.

Like the original play, the song’s narrative tells the story of a forbidden love between two teenagers, Roméo and Juliette. The song captures their passionate love, mirroring the passion that Romeo and Juliet share in the play.

However, the song offers a happy ending for the couple. Instead of a tragic fate, they are allowed to live happily, as embodied in the line, “To believe that they love each other more in life than in death.”

15. “Romeo & Juliet” By Peter McPoland

Singer-songwriter Peter McPoland wrote “Romeo & Juliet” from the perspective of a boyfriend in love. He uses the characters of Romeo and Juliet as metaphors to express deep emotions and yearnings.

In the lyrics, the narrator expresses his desire to be the Romeo in his beloved’s life. It suggests his willingness to take risks and face challenges for their love.

“Romeo & Juliet,” the title track of McPoland’s 2020 album, has a far happier ending than the classic tale. Near the end of the song, Romeo goes to his knees and asks her to marry him.

16. “Romeo” By Petula Clark

Shakespeare wrote Romeo and Juliet in the 1500s. Since then, many have provided their own interpretation of what these characters are like. Petula Clark ‘s “Romeo,” in particular, lays down expectations on Romeo based on the classic play.

The narrator imagines Romeo as someone who can easily make a woman fall in love with him. She knows that if she’d “act like a fool / [she’d] be a poor Juliet.” Meeting him makes her realize that he’s “as charming as [Romeo].”

She finds herself falling head over heels in love with him. This is addressed in the lines, “Romeo, why am I so in love with you … / I’ve been yours from the moment you said hello.”

17. “Romeo” By Lucky Dube

Up next, we have the reggae love song “Romeo” by Lucky Dube . Here, Romeo serves as a metaphor to express deep emotions and longing.

While the song mentions Romeo and Juliet, it does not relate to the play by Shakespeare. The narrator is a guy who has been searching for love and found it in her. Loving her has made him a changed man.

In essence, “Romeo” is more about the narrator’s feelings and experiences of love. He may not be like the one in Shakespeare’s play, but he promises that he can be his partner’s own Romeo.

18. “Romeo And Juliet” By Johnny Drille

In Johnny Drille ‘s “Romeo and Juliet,” the characters serve as metaphors to express intense emotions. It has no direct reference to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet .

The names Romeo and Juliet symbolize a deep, passionate love. The narrator expresses his yearning for his beloved and willingness to do anything for her. For him, he’s ready to give her anything just as long as she gives him her love.

In addition, he implores her to be his Juliet while he promises to be her Romeo. This signifies a promise of eternal love and devotion, much like the commitment that Romeo and Juliet had for each other.

19. “Romeo & Juliet” By S.O.A.P.

Moving on, we have “Romeo & Juliet” by S.O.A.P. , from their 1998 album Not Like Other Girls . The song uses these iconic character names to symbolize passionate and intense young love.

The narrator is experiencing a powerful emotional connection. This is embodied in the lines “It’s a lot like Romeo and Juliet / It feels like something’s happening to me.” She feels like she is Juliet and her beloved is Romeo, much like the ones in Shakespeare’s play.

This suggests that she is going through a similar experience of intense, probably first, love that is both overwhelming and transformative.

20. “Mystery Dance” By Elvis Costello

From Elvis Costello ‘s 1977 album My Aim Is True comes “Mystery Dance.” This song uses Romeo and Juliet as characters in the lyrics. Take note, though, that they are not Romeo and Juliet in their traditional roles in Shakespeare’s play.

The song revolves around a couple and their first intimate time together. As it turns out, the guy, Romeo, has no idea how to do it. But he pretends he does so that his lover, Juliet, will not be disappointed.

In the end, Romeo is the one dismayed by how things turned out. After doing it, he’s “still mystified.” Perhaps the expectation is far from reality because he’s “not satisfied.”

21. “Romeo And The Lonely Girl” By Thin Lizzy

The Irish hard rock band Thin Lizzy released “Romeo and the Lonely Girl” in 1976. The song uses Romeo as a metaphor for a man who is unlucky in love.

In the lyrics, Romeo connects with a lonely girl. He eventually leaves her even though she has fallen in love with him.

Romeo here seems to be a person less committed than Romeo in Shakespeare’s play. He readily moves on from one woman to another, leaving the lonely girl brokenhearted. As such, the song presents a more modern take on love and relationships.

22. “Happy Ending” By Elvis Presley

Though “Happy Ending” by Elvis Presley is not all about Romeo and Juliet, the song deserves a spot on our list. It references the characters, but the narrator seeks a love story with a happy ending.

In Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet meet a tragic end, but in “Happy Ending,” the narrator talks about wanting a love story where the boy and girl meet and never part again. This is obviously the complete opposite of what happened in Romeo and Juliet .

In essence, the reference to Romeo and Juliet highlights his desire for a love story that doesn’t end in tragedy. The song is a hopeful wish for a love story that ends happily for the couple.

23. “Here In Heaven” By Sparks

The darkly comic song “Here in Heaven” by Sparks plays on the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet. But with a twist.

The lyrics describe a failed suicide pact between two lovers, similar to the tragic end of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. But in the song, only the guy (Romeo) goes through with the pact. Juliet backs out and breaks their “little pact.”

The lyrics are from Romeo’s point of view, now alone in heaven. He feels betrayed because Juliet is not with him, and he regrets his decision. To make things more painful, he knows he won’t be with Juliet for a long time.

24. “Romeo And Juliet” By Biz Markie

Our next song is a playful homage to the story of Romeo and Juliet. Biz Markie ‘s “Romeo and Juliet” was released in 1991 from the album I Need a Haircut.

The song begins with Juliet’s famous line, “Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou?” This is followed by the narrator’s take on the situation: “That’s what Juliet asked, but I don’t know now / Maybe he went to get some roses for you.”

“Romeo and Juliet” takes a light-hearted approach to the classic, creating an interesting narrative. It uses familiar elements of Shakespeare’s tale as a backdrop to create a humorous story.

25. “Romeo & Juliet” By Salem Ilese

To end this list, we have “Romeo & Juliet” by Salem Ilese . The song references not only Romeo and Juliet but other couples who did not end up together.

The narrator expresses disillusionment and disappointment in love. She and her lover did not work out, and this affected the way she viewed love. She mentions Romeo and Juliet, Jack and Rose from Titanic , and even the real-life split of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

The song suggests that the promises made between these couples do not matter anymore. That is because they ended in tragedy or separation.

Summing Up Our List Of Romeo And Juliet Songs

As you’ve seen, Romeo and Juliet from Shakespeare’s tale transcended time and boundaries. They come alive in these songs that spin new tales that delve into themes of love, sacrifice, and tragedy.

Each of these songs engages with the story of Romeo and Juliet in unique ways. The characters and the elements of the classic tale serve as the backdrop for the songs’ storytelling.

So that’s it for today. We hope you enjoyed discovering new songs to add to your playlist. And if we missed songs that should be on the list, let us know. We will add them for you.

Dan Farrant

Dan Farrant, the founder of Hello Music Theory, has been teaching music for over 15 years, helping hundreds of thousands of students unlock the joy of music. He graduated from The Royal Academy of Music in 2012 and then launched Hello Music Theory in 2014. He plays the guitar, piano, bass guitar and double bass and loves teaching music theory.

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Song and Theme Essay Writing Assignment for Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare

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This assignment focuses on making connections between the themes of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare and a current song. This assignment works well for all but is definitely a good option for lower level students. It is very engaging for high school students because they get to spend time listening to music in order to pick a song for their essay, yet it also assesses their knowledge of the play.

Included in this product:

-The task and procedures for the essay

-Description of the themes that can be used

-Student examples

-Graphic organizer for differentiation

Related Materials:

• Introduction to Romeo and Juliet Love Sonnet in Act 5 Scene 1 Discussion and Task
• Introduction to Shakespearean Sonnet and Romeo and Juliet Prologue and Play
• Romeo and Juliet Multiple Choice Test
• Romeo and Juliet Act 3 or Act 4 Lesson Plan on Literary Foils
• Romeo and Juliet Act 4 and Act 5 Study Guide
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