You are here

All Site ContentRomeo and JulietAct 1Scene 5
Back to the Play
"the sport is at the best"
Proverb
Act 1,
Scene 5
Lines 116b-123

An explanation of Benvolio’s phrase, “the sport is at the best” in Act 1, Scene 5 of myShakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

Romeo

                                       Is she a Capulet?
O dear account! My life is my foe's debt.

Benvolio

Away, begone; the sport is at the best.

Romeo

Ay, so I fear, the more is my unrest.

Capulet

Nay, gentlemen, prepare not to be gone;                       
We have a trifling foolish banquet towards.
[They indicate that they must leave.]
Is it e'en so? Why, then, I thank you all.
I thank you, honest gentlemen, good night.

Benvolio is citing the same proverb we encountered earlier, “when play is best, it’s time to leave.” He means that they should leave the party now while they’re ahead.