When discussing a "subtitle" for Romeo and Juliet , it typically refers to the play's original full title, the "Chorus" (prologue) that functions as an introductory summary, or modern translated subtitles for films and education.

This archaic "subtitle" tells the audience exactly what to expect: a high-quality (excellent) but mournful (lamentable) story.

: It establishes the setting (Verona), the conflict (an ancient feud), and the theme (fate vs. choice) before the first scene even begins.

For modern viewers and students, "subtitles" often refer to translated or simplified versions of the text:

: It is written as a Shakespearean sonnet, signaling to the audience that this is specifically a love story. Modern Subtitling and Translations