Benvolio / Mercutio

Question 1

benvolio quote 1

Answer 1

Act 1 ‘Part, fools!’
Put up your swords, you know not what you do’ The name ‘Benvolio’ is derived from the adjective benevolent, reflecting his peaceable and kind nature. This is evident in {quote}, where he is the first to advocate for peace in the play, prioritizing harmony over his family’s honour. While a Renaissance audience might view Benvolio’s preference for peace as effeminate or weak, a modern audience is more likely to admire his wisdom and moral strength

Question 2

benvolio quote 2

Answer 2

Act 1 ‘Being one too many by my weary self’
Benvolio talks of having a troubled mind {quote}, yet despite his own negative emotions, he prioritised giving space and support to Romeo, reflecting the depth and strength of their friendship.

Question 3

mercutio quote 3

Answer 3

Act 1 ‘You are a lover, borrow Cupid’s wings, And soar with them above a common bound’- Mercutio frequently employs highly sexualized language throughout the text, {quote}, which demonstrates how he intertwines love with lust. For a contemporary audience, this could be interpreted as an example of toxic masculinity, shedding light on the poor treatment of women during that era and reflecting the gender dynamics of the time.

Question 4

benvolio quote 3

Answer 4

Romeo! My cousin Romeo! Romeo! - The repetition of the exclamation, “Romeo” , emphasises the excitement and worry in Benvolio in seeing Romeo demonstrating the strong bond.

Question 5

Mercutio quote 2

Answer 5

‘Romeo! Humours! madman!passion!lover!- The use of mockery and insults in contrast to the exclamations said to Benvolio demonstrates the difference in friendship