Examples Of Impulsivity In Romeo And Juliet

The Impulsivity Of Romeo Do you ever wonder what impulsivity leads to in the love of young adolescents? The tragedy of Romeo and Juliet has been adapted many, many times, with every adaptation catching the essence of the original tragedy. In every adaptation, there is one characteristic that is permanently portrayed by Romeo and Juliet, which is their impulsivity. Romeo’s impulsivity reigns over all of the other characters' impulsivity, with Romeo's impulsivity causing misery to those around him. Romeo’s impulsivity is first portrayed at the Capulet party, where he meets Juliet and immediately falls in love with her. As Romeo says, “Did my heart love you till now? Forswear it, sight, For I ne’er saw true beauty till this night.” (Shakespeare, 1.4.59-60) This is a special showcase of his impulsivity because not too long ago, Romeo was hopelessly in love with Rosaline.

Ironically, he has been depressed ever since he was rejected by his love, Rosaline, the same Rosaline that he later forgets all about after seeing Juliet for the first time. Earlier on in the play, we find that Romeo claims to be unable to forget Rosaline, as he states, “What doth her beauty serve but as a note Where I may read who passed that passing fair? Farewell. I will be back. Thou canst not teach me to forget,” (Shakespeare, 1.1.244-246). The irony of Romeo’s actions alludes to his complete impulsiveness. The next act of impulsiveness by Romeo that is most memorable, is his wedding. He decides to marry Juliet after knowing her for less than two hours. “Sleep dwell upon thine eyes, peace in thy breasts. Would I sleep and peace so sweet to rest. Hence will I to my ghostly friar’s close cell, His help to crave, and my dear hap to tell.” (Shakespeare, 2.2.202-205) Within his first meeting with Juliet he already is planning their wedding. And he has already come up with a plan to ask Friar Laurence for