Romeo: I fear too early; for my mind misgives
Some consequence yet hanging in the stars
Shall bitterly begin his fearful date
With this night's revels, and expire the term
Of a despised life clos'd in my breast
By some vile forfeit of untimely death.
–Romeo and Juliet,
William Shakespeare
Read this excerpt from Act I, Scene iv, in which Romeo is talking about going to the Capulets’ party. Then, choose the best answer for each question.
What is being foreshadowed here?
How does foreshadowing connect to the plot and the central conflict?
This excerpt is foreshadowing Romeo's untimely death, suggesting that something bad will happen at the party that will lead to his demise.
Foreshadowing connects to the plot and the central conflict by building suspense and anticipation. It hints at the tragic events that will unfold later in the play, adding tension to the story. Additionally, it foreshadows the overall theme of fate and the characters' inability to escape their predetermined destinies.