The prologue is basically summary of the text that follows. It starts by briefly stating the Montagues and the Capulets dislike for each other. Then it goes on to give the setting and certain other facts that make the reader aware of the tension that existed between these two elite families. Finally it ends with how the families grieve over their dead children and how the tale has been made into a play that people may watch intently.

In the location of the fine-looking city of Verona, there were two special families that held a certain level of respect and pride in the area. They were the Capulets and the Montagues, who despised each other and this was no new thing. It was something that had carried on from generation to generation. An intensity of hatred that was ready to break fresh rage. This means that anything could happen given the degree that the families hated each other. This fury and detest was felt by civilians as well as they would often fight to their death when members or supporters of the two households met on the streets.

Regardless of this fact, two lovers from the homes who had fallen head over heels for each other. Seeing how their love was pointless and would never be accepted, they made the hard choice to commit suicide. This move that saw their deaths was met with dismay and sadness from their families. It was after all their very own homes that opposed their union and led to this catastrophe. Their parents were then very moved and upset, but their dead children could not be brought back by any means. This saddened them further.

The sad story had then become the material for a play that was staged and a mere two hours conveyed the message to the audience. The audience is told to be patient when watching the play unfold and this is critical in determining the theme of the act. Even if the observers with all their hard attention are unable to catch certain elements of the drama, the hard work of the actors and people associated with staging the play will help to make them understand anything seemingly obscure.