Relationships In Romeo And Juliet

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A third type of love that Shakespeare shows in the play is the friendship between Mercutio/ Benvolio, Friar Lawrence to Romeo. Mercutio and Benvolio are Romeo’s royal and thoughtful friends who play a crucial role in shaping the play’s overall theme and in moving the narrative forward. Benvolio is compassionate, reliable and trustworthy friend who spends most of the play trying to help and support Romeo. On more than one occasion, Benvolio tries to follow Romeo and speak to him, as he does not realize Romeo’s emotional problems caused by the unrequited love. When Romeo reveals his problems, Benvolio would “weep” at Romeo’s heart oppression. Benvolio replies that he would 'weep' at Romeo's 'heart's oppression' (1.1). As a wise counselor, he advises Romeo to…show more content…
Mercutio is the first to recognize Romeo’s deep love for Rosaline and finds his romanticized ideas tiresome, as he describes, “Romeo! Humors! Madman! Passion! Lover!" Mercutio constantly puns, jokes, and teases in fun or bitterness. Mercutio’s royalty towards Romeo is also shown in Act 3, scene 1, Tybalt challenges Romeo to a fight; Mercutio intervenes on Romeo’s behalf, and is killed. He cannot understand why Romeo would refuse the challenge as he says,"O calm, dishonorable, vile submission" (3.1.72). Mercutio has strong sense of honor and demonstrates his loyalty and courage to Romeo. His last words are, “A plague o’both your houses.” This becomes significant after Mercutio’s death in which Romeo experiences the potential consequences. Afterwards, Romeo kills Tybalt which later leads to his exile and eventually ends with tragic events for both families. Another important friend and adviser of Romeo is Friar Laurence, who constantly suggests Romeo to act with caution, consideration and moderation. Friar is trusted and respected by
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