Examples Of Juxtaposition In Romeo And Juliet

Throughout the play Romeo and Juliet, written by William Shakespeare in the 16th century, there is consistent theme of conflict featured in terms of both mental, physical and emotional means. The way this dispute is embodied throughout the duration of the play alternates subject to subject to the character in question- but can be represented through many means.
To further highlight the characteristics of dispute- conflict is often placed in juxtaposition to its opposite- love, to emphasize and indicate the extremity of the aforementioned. Many character's dialogue gives prominence to these striking opposites in the form of antithesis. These two attributes are almost conflicting themselves, with constant alternation between the pure and innocent form of love, and the fiery presence of conflict. It is also very apparent that Shakespeare has attempted to almost 'assign' each character's personality to one of the antitheses, and it is often when these contrasting persona encounter one another, that a conflictual situation arises.
The audience learns in the prologue, recited by the chorus, that at the centre of the play are two opposing families, locked in a bitter feud. The audience

In comparison to Benvolio, they are highly divergent characters. Benvolio’s personality is one of peace and wellbeing, and his character is in juxtaposition to that of Tybalt’s. It is evident from the moment Tybalt first spoke in act 1 scene 1 that he is violent and enjoys fighting. His first line being ‘What, art though drawn amongst these heartless hinds?’ referring to Benvolio’s involvement in a fight between the servants, further implicates that Tybalt is regularly focused on violence and fighting. The line that further implicates his passion for conflict is at the moment when he discusses the topic of ‘peace’. Tybalt, on the subject of this word, says ‘I hate the word, as I hate hell’, suggesting that he has a passionate dislike for