Topic > Changes in Romeo in Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

IndexInfatuation with RosalineImpulsive decision makingGrowth in maturity and understandingWilliam Shakespeare's play, Romeo and Juliet, centers on the tragic love story of two young members of feuding families . Over the course of the play, Romeo's character undergoes significant changes, both in his emotions and his actions. This essay will explore the various transformations Romeo experiences, analyzing the factors that contribute to his development. By examining his initial infatuation with Rosaline, his impulsive decision making, and his eventual growth in maturity and understanding, we can gain a deeper understanding of Romeo's character and the play's overall themes. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Infatuation with Rosaline At the beginning of the play, Romeo is portrayed as a young man deeply infatuated with a woman named Rosaline. His love for her is depicted as unrequited and unattainable, which leads to his melancholic state. Romeo's infatuation with Rosaline is evident in his dialogue and actions. For example, in Act 1, Scene 1, Romeo describes his love for Rosaline in poetic and exaggerated terms, stating: "She has Diana's wits, / And, in strong evidence of well-armed chastity, / From the weak bow Love's child lives without charm." (1.1.208-210). This infatuation consumes Romeo, making him withdrawn and melancholy. However, Romeo's infatuation with Rosaline undergoes a significant change when he attends the Capulets' masquerade ball and meets Juliet. It is at this point that Romeo's emotions shift from Rosaline to Juliet, and he experiences a profound transformation. Impulsive Decision Making Romeo's impulsive nature is evident throughout the play, as he often acts without considering the consequences of his actions. This impulsive behavior can be seen in his decision to attend the Capulets' masquerade ball, despite the risk of being recognized as Montague. Furthermore, Romeo's quick decision to marry Juliet, just hours after meeting her, highlights his impulsiveness. An example of Romeo's impulsive decision making is seen in Act 2, scene 2, where he proclaims his love for Juliet, saying, "Oh, swear not by the moon, the inconstant moon, / That monthly changes her circled sphere, / so that your love does not prove equally variable" (2.2.109-111). This impulsive declaration of love, made in the heat of the moment, demonstrates Romeo's tendency to act without considering the consequences. Furthermore, Romeo's impulsive actions ultimately lead to the play's tragic ending. For example, his hasty decision to take his own life after learning of Juliet's supposed death showcases his impulsive nature. Romeo's impulsiveness not only influences his destiny, but also contributes to the unraveling of events that lead to the untimely deaths of both Romeo and Juliet. Growth in Maturity and Understanding Despite Romeo's initial infatuation with Rosaline and his impulsive decision making, he undergoes a significant transformation. in terms of maturity and understanding. This growth is evident in his attitude towards love and his ability to think rationally. As the play progresses, Romeo begins to question the nature of his love for Juliet and reflects on the consequences of their actions. In Act 3, Scene 3, Romeo states, “Oh, I am a fool of fortune!” (3.1.136). This realization shows Romeo's growing awareness of the role fate plays in his life and the tragic outcome of his impulsive decisions. Furthermore, the decision to, 2005.