The Importance of Mercutio to the Plot and Action of Romeo and Juliet

The Importance of Mercutio to the Plot and Action of Romeo and Juliet

I believe that, although Mercutio is introduced to the play quite late

and his death occurs not too long after, much of the play's action,

interesting dialogue and comic relief revolves around him, making

Mercutio quite a central character.

It is Mercutio who inadvertently brings the two lovers together for

the first time when he lures Romeo to the gathering at Lord Capulet's

residence

'Nay gentle Romeo, we must have you dance'

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With these words Mercutio is attempting to entice Romeo into a playful

and social mood and this gives us an insight into Mercutio's

personality- good humoured, witty and charismatic.

I think that Mercutio's main role in the play emphasises these traits

and it is Shakespeare's portrayal of him as the opposite to Romeo in

many ways, that adds appeal to the story.

Romeo is shown as a dreamer and his views on love and his

relationships are quite romantic and idealistic. ...