Mercutio's Decisions In Romeo And Juliet

Robert Tew once famously said “You are always responsible for how you act, no matter how you feel”. During Elizabethan times, people made diligent decisions that were deemed acceptable within the confines of society. In Shakespeare’s timeless play ‘Romeo and Juliet’, the author demonstrates how certain choices people make, frame the pathway of their future. The witty character Mercutio makes various decisions throughout the play that ultimately determine his fate. His abrupt decision to attend a Capulet party with Romeo angered his enemy Tybalt, stepping in out of his own free will, Mercutio voluntarily placed himself into a duel, and blinded by his own vengeance, was the first to draw his sword. Although Mercutio may blame the Montagues and

A significant factor that altered Mercutio’s path on that fatal day was his decision to attend the Capulet’s party. Mercutio’s comical nature may be endearing at times, however his mockery towards Romeo helps influence his friend to his point of view. Through continuous undignified comments, Mercutio breaks down Romeos barrier, ultimately surrendering to his desires. This is demonstrated when Mercutio expresses “Tut, dun’s the mouse, the constable’s own word” (I, IV, 40) This line, among many, ridicules Romeo’s uncertainty about attending the party through calling him a “stick in the mud”, in other words dull and unadventurous. However, Mercutio’s bully like terms are contrasted when he highlights the fun aspects of attending the party as well; “Nay, gentle Romeo, we must have you dance” (I, IV, 13).

Out of his own free will, Mercutio wilfully replaced Romeo in Tybalt’s requested duel. During act 3, scene 1, Tybalt, still aggravated by the recent ‘party crasher’ incident, hastily searches for Romeo with the intent to begin the duel. However, with his secret betrothal to Juliet, Romeo is seeking to make peace with Tybalt as now they are legally ‘family’. Oblivious to recent events, Tybalt has no impression that Romeo is married to Juliet, therefore his hatred continues to cultivate. This is expressed when Tybalt states “Romeo, the love I bear thee can afford no better term than this: thou art a villain.” (III, I, 31 – 32). Whilst Tybalt continues to outpour his anger, Romeo is adamant to keep the peace. Mercutio, on the other hand, views Romeo’s sudden ‘peace’ perspective to be weak and cowardly. This is highlighted in the play when Mercutio conveys “This calm submission is dishonourable and vile” (III, I, 44). This signifies Mercutio’s belief that Romeo’s refusal is an act of cowardice. Not wanting to bear the wrath of being viewed as weak, Mercutio promptly steps up to defend his and Romeo’s honour. However, some may argue that Mercutio’s tearaway manner may have triggered his sudden interest in fighting in the duel. Even in today’s society, fighting for the sake of fighting can be demonstrated through the dreadful coward’s punch, were