Passage: In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. Shakespeare's play 'Romeo and Juliet' (1)____ a love story that ends in tragedy. The two young lovers come from rival families who (2)____ in a bitter feud. Despite their families' hatred, Romeo and Juliet marry (3)____ secret. Their love leads to a series of unfortunate events, culminating in (4)____ untimely death. The play (5)____ themes of love, fate and the destructive nature of conflict Question: Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank marked 1.

1. is
2. am
3. was
4. were