Tybalt's Character in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Although admirable qualities add to one's life, they can often lead to their death. One such example of this occurs in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet where we are introduced to Tybalt, a fiery and prideful young relative of the Capulet family. In the play, In the play, Tybalt plays a prominent role in both the thematic scheme and in the ultimate outcome. Tybalt is the instigator of a chain of reactions which change the course of this tragedy, sending it into a headlong collision with fate. Tybalt?s uncontrollable vengeance, skill as a fighter and sense of Capulet pride are admirable in their own ways, but lead Tybalt to his eventual death at the hands of Romeo.

Tybalt seems to be recognized even by his own family as a hothead. Up until his death in Act III, he is constantly quarreling and never hesitates to draw a weapon in the face of a foe.

Are anger management classes a spoof? If there were not a real problem with anger, they would not exist. Let us just say that Tybalt never was able to complete his anger management classes, because it is evident he has trouble controlling his anger. Tybalt is first introduced at the Capulet party that Romeo has decided to attend without an invitation. When Tybalt first spots Romeo at his family's party, he immediately races to Lord Capulet, who tries to calm Tybalt. Tybalt turns and addresses Lord Capulet: ?But this intrusion shall, now seeming sweet, convert to bitter gall.?(I, V, 92-93) Through this Tybalt cools down for the time being, but he certainly demands revenge again from Romeo.

Tybalt's characterization in the play occurs by a direct means and it remains static throughout the duration of the play. His rude, hateful, and bitter character is made clear by his eloquent words and actions. I feel that some of the characters best development occurs when he isn?t even involved in the scene. In Act II, Scene IV, Mercutio and Benvolio develop characteristics of his fighting methods and skill as well as his French styled mannerisms in a mocking way. The method of this development could also have occurred because of the audience that Shakespeare was attempting to entertain, an anti-French group. Thus Tybalt would be both a hated villain in a fictitious play, but also a hero in some people?s eyes.

In the end, although Tybalt is proud and fiery, I do sympathize with him.