platonic relationships

Question 1

thesis

Answer 1

In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare uses the foil between Mercutio and Benvolio to explore different models of male friendship. While both offer guidance with good intentions, their advice is ultimately misguided and contributes to Romeo’s tragic downfall. Through this, Shakespeare highlights the limits of platonic advice in a world overwhelmed by emotional extremity and conflict.

Question 2

essay plan

Answer 2

At the start of the play, Shakespeare uses Benvolio’s peacekeeping role and emotional support for Romeo to celebrate the stabilising force of healthy male friendships, contrasting it with Verona’s violent masculinity.

As the play continues, Shakespeare uses Mercutio’s wit and emotional repression to critique how male friendships are often built on bravado and mockery rather than emotional honesty, ultimately making them fragile in times of crisis.

Towards the end of the play, Shakespeare presents the play’s tragic ending as a criticism of those within society who fail the vulnerable by providing poorly considered advice, even those with ostensibly good intentions

Question 3

quote 1 and 2

Answer 3

what sadness lengthens Romeo’s hours

no coz, I rather weep

Question 4

quote 3 and 4

Answer 4

i aimed so near when I supposed you loved

You are a lover. Borrow Cupid’s wings

Question 5

quote 5 and 6

Answer 5

If love be rough with you, be rough with love

prick love for pricking, and you beat love down

Question 6

quote 7 and 8

Answer 6

I will make thee think thy swan a crow

O calm, dishonourable, vile submission

Question 7

quote 9

Answer 7

I am fortune’s fool