Roméo et Juliette: Synopsis: Act 4

Act IV

Scene: Juliette ' S Chamber (19 Minutes)

At the risk of death Romeo has made his way to his bride's chamber, where she readily forgives him the murder of her cousin Tybalt. Together their voices rise in farewell.

Click above to watch soprano Angela Gheorghiu and tenor Roberto Alagna in Act IV of Roméo et Juliette

"Listen!" says Romeo sadly. "The song of the lark reminds us that day has come."

"No," Juliette assures him, "it is the sweet nightingale, singing of love." Tearing herself from his embrace, she urges him to go.

Hardly is she alone before the nurse comes in with the news that Count Capulet and Friar Laurence are at the door.

"Let sorrow be turned to joy," announces her father. "In accord­ ance with Tybalt's dying request, you will prepare to wed Count Paris!" He departs, leaving the friar to instruct Juliette further.

"It is better to die than to accept this miserable fate," exclaims Juliette desperately, begging the aged priest to help her. The kind old man is prepared to come to her aid.

"Drink this potion," he answers gently. "It will cause you to fall into a deep sleep like unto death. When you wake on the morrow, I shall bring your husband to take you away."