How Does Shakespeare Use Direct Characterization In Romeo And Juliet

“However, our impulses are too strong for our judgement sometimes” said Thomas Hardy, a well known poet and novelist during the romantic and enlightenment periods. This quote directly relates to the character Romeo of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Romeo Montegue is a very impulsive, young boy who is guided directly by his emotions. Although there are many techniques for showing characterization, Shakespeare most commonly uses the character’s own words. “Then plainly know my heart’s dear love is set on the fair daughter of rich Capulet...save what thou must combine by by holy marriage...but this I pray, that thou consent to marry us today” (2.3.57-64) said Romeo, showing his love and sudden commitment to Juliet. After one day of knowing Juliet, Romeo believes that his love for her is so strong that they must marry immediately. Later on when Romeo hears of Juliet’s death he meets with the apothecary, “Let me have a dram of poison, such soon-speeding gear as well as will disperse itself itself through all the veins That the life-weary taker may fall dead...Doth hurry from the fatal cannon’s womb.” (5.1.59-65) Without thought Romeo instantly decides he wants to take his own life and join Juliet in death.

When the play begins, Romeo is heartbroken over Rosaline, but then he meets Juliet and after only hours he proposes marriage to her. The way that Romeo so quickly and full-heartedly falls in love shows how emotional he is, but also portrays his impulsivity which in this case is driven by his love of love, not necessarily his love of Juliet. After witnessing, his best friend, Mercutio’s death he is furious and his emotions take over. He proposes a duel to his best friend’s killer, Tybalt. Without regard for consequences, Romeo kills Tybalt in an emotional