Benvolio Is The Voice Of Reason In Romeo And Juliet

Perhaps the most widely acclaimed and renowned story of young forbidden love is that of Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. However, these star-crossed lovers probably owe most of their fame to their relationship’s infamous demise. In the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, two enamored teenagers struggle to stay together, due to the chaos and conflict of their rivaling families. They fight to keep their love alive, while also trying to please the various other characters in the story. Among these people, Romeo’s cousin, Benvolio, is caught up in the middle of all the hectic drama. However, what sets him apart from the rest of the characters is his desire to always do the right thing and remain impartial. Therefore, Benvolio can constantly be looked to as the voice of

First, as his cousin, Benvolio is part of the Montague line and has familial ties to Romeo, driving his urge to be the voice of reason in Romeo’s life in particular. Due to this connection, he likely feels a responsibility to look out for his cousin and keep him out of trouble. This instinct is apparent when Benvolio acts as Romeo’s right-hand man. He is constantly at his side and tends to offer Romeo advice during his times of need. His guidance is especially evident when he tries to convince his cousin to attend the party at which he later meets Juliet. This conversation takes place after Romeo had recently been rejected by Rosaline, the woman whom he was formerly in love with. In an effort to help him move on from her, Benvolio urges Romeo to attend the banquet and meet a new girl. Benvolio encourages him, “At this same ancient feast of Capulet’s sups the fair Rosaline whom thou so loves, with all the admired beauties of Verona. Go thither” (1.2.84-87). His logic and counsel is able to get through to Romeo and allows him to make better decisions, especially when his infatuations cloud his judgement. Furthermore, Benvolio often demonstrates this