Mercutio
the witty skeptic
Theme
People should learn to trust their friends to do what is best for them.
Mercutio talking to Romeo
Rome and Tybalt fighting
Mercutio and Tybalt fighting
Act III, Scene I
An example of this theme would be, "Draw Benvolio; beat down their weapons. Gentlemen, for shame!...Tybalt, Mercutio, the Prince expressly hath forbid this bandying in Verona streets"(1046). Romeo is speaking to Mercutio and Tybalt to get them to stop fighting. Romeo is looking out for Mercutio because he doesn't want him to get hurt. Also, Romeo know that the Prince has banned fighting in Verona streets, and if he finds them fighting, both Mercutio and Tybalt will be killed.
Act 1, Scene IV
Romeo says to Mercutio,"I have a soul of lead so stakes me to the ground I cannot move..."(1009). Mercutio replies with,"You are a lover borrow Cupid's wings and soar with them above a common bound"(1009). Romeo is contemplating going to the party or not and Mercutio is trying to convince him to. Even though Romeo is still love struck over Rosaline, Mercutio tells him to go to the party, and have a good time. Romeo meets the love of his life at the party, Juliet, so Romeo should listen to Mercutio more.
Act III, Scene I
Benvolio knows what is best for Mercutio and tells him,"We talk here in the public haunt of men. Either withdraw unto some private places and reason coldly of your grievances, or else depart"(1045). Benvolio is talking to both Mercutio and Tybalt to get them to stop fighting. Benvolio is trying to keep the peace between the two, and keep Mercutio safe. If Mercutio would have trusted Benvolio and listened to what he said, he would still be alive.
Another example of Theme
Benvolio is being a good friend and tells Romeo,"...away be gone! The citizens are up, and Tybalt slain. Stand not amazed. The Prince will doom thee death..."(1048). Romeo avenges Mercutio by killing Tybalt. Benvolio warns Romeo that if the Prince finds out, he will have Romeo killed.