Romeo And Juliet Character Foil Essay

Cats and dogs are known for their exceedingly different behaviors. With all their distinctions, it is effortless to see how drastically offbeat one is when compared to the other. In the literary work “The Most Excellent and Lamentable Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare, the reader is introduced to the dramatic character foil of Tybalt Capulet and Benvolio Montague. Tybalt Capulet, also known as the “Prince of Cats”, is characterized as irrational, reckless, and as a hot head. On the other , Benvolio Montague is viewed as peaceful, calm, and level headed. This striking character foil in this timeless tragedy emphasizes by contrast the two juvenile men’s individual personalities. Throughout the play it becomes apparent that Romeo’s cousin, Benvolio, takes on the role as the peacemaker. For instance, Benvolio goes betwixt the Montagues and

As an example of this, Tybalt becomes visibly and verbally upset that Romeo, a Montague, has arrived at the Capulet party. In response to this intrusion, Tybalt tells his uncle,“Uncle, this is a Montague, our foe,/ A villain that is hither come in spite,/ To scorn at our solemnity this night” (1.5.60-62). Likewise, after being told to leave Romeo alone by his uncle, Lord Capulet, Tybalt vows for revenge against the young Montague. The “Prince of Cats” truly lives up to his nickname when he states,“Patience perforce with willful choler meeting/ Makes my flesh tremble in their different greeting./ I will withdraw, but this intrusion shall/ Now seeming sweet convert to bitter gall” (1.4.88-91). Arrogant Tybalt makes it a promise to get back at Romeo. He plans to challenge him, as we find out later in the play. Tybalt pays the price for his monumental ego as well. Like many young people, he does not think of the consequences of his actions and thinks he is