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Romeo Impulsive Quotes

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Throughout all of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, Romeo is unarguably the most reckless character in the play. Despite several warnings being impulsive by Friar Lawrence and other characters, Romeo fails to be mindful of their advice. While it can be observed that Romeo has good intentions, he makes poor and rash decisions that lead to unfortunate circumstances for his friends and everyone around him. His regardless nature is the catalyst for nearly every tragic event that occurs, and ultimately, the deaths of himself and Juliet. There are multiple points where Romeo’s decisions set off a chain of events leading up to his own and Juliet’s deaths. Romeo’s interference in Mercutio and Tybalt’s battle directly caused Mercutio’s death, …show more content…

His priorities are constantly changing, as seen in the beginning by his brief infatuation with Rosaline, as well as later when he kills Tybalt. Romeo knows that killing Tybalt will prevent him from seeing Juliet, as he would not be safe in Verona without the watch trying to kill him. He prioritizes avenging Mercutio over being able to see Juliet and would willingly be banished, a circumstance he likens to death as seen on page 435, lines 21-23 “Is death mis-term’d: calling death banishment, Thou cutt’st my head off with a golden axe, And smilest upon the stroke that murders me.”
Even when Romeo is urged by Balthazar to be patient, and wait for more information before rushing back to Verona when he hears of Juliet’s death, Romeo does not heed his warning. “Balthazar: I do beseech you, sir, have patience: Your looks are pale and wild, and do import some misadventure.” (Pg 468 28-29) This subject of Romeo being cautioned to slow down by multiple characters is a recurrent theme throughout the play. Another prime example can be found in Friar Lawrence's ominous words as Romeo convinces him to officiate his and Juliet’s wedding: “Wisely and slow; they stumble that run fast.” (Pg 468

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