The Consequences Of Impulsivity In Romeo And Juliet

Everyone acts on impulsivity in their lives, often times, bringing a sort of negativity. In the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, impulsivity is shown by all the characters, especially Romeo who acts on his feelings without thought for the majority of the play. Shakespeare shows impulsivity is a catapult for negative consequences in Romeo’s rush into marriage, readiness to kill Tybalt and his thoughtless suicide. Romeo and Juliet's marriage is nothing but impulsive. They become married not even a day after they meet because of their physical attraction to one another instead of actual love. This relationship brings many issues, essentially ending their lives. Friar Laurence had warned them of this careless act. “Wisely, and slow. They stumble that/ run fast” (Shakespeare.2.3.102-103). However, the Friar also plays a part in their thoughtless marriage as he hopes marrying them will end the Capulet, Montague feud, taking little time to think through the consequences. Juliet too acts on impulse as she knew very little about the outside world and deciding to marry the first boy she was attracted to. If Romeo and Juliet had not acted on this impulsivity and had instead waited and told their parents, most of their

Romeo overlooks the fact that Prince swore the head of the next person who began a street fight and acted on his impulse. This act leads to his banishment sending he and Juliet into desperate situations. Juliet lets her grief control her and threatens suicide. “Romeo is banished(...)/ In that word's death; no words can that woe sound” (Shakespeare.3.2.135-137). Romeo too threatens suicide, before thinking through what to do next. The Friar also plays a major role, as he enables their impulsive love by creating an insane plan for them to see one another again, bringing their love to an