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Why does Rosaline represent a foil to Juliet?

A. because they are so similar
B. because Romeo’s superficial attraction to Rosaline is contrasted with Romeo’s deep love for Juliet
C. because Romeo’s deep love for Rosaline is contrasted with his superficial attraction to Juliet
D. because the two women are the same character internally, but look different externally

2 Answers

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Final answer:

Rosaline is a foil to Juliet because her role as Romeo's initial, superficial love interest contrasts sharply with his profound love for Juliet, emphasizing the depth of his feelings for Juliet.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rosaline represents a foil to Juliet because their roles and Romeo's differing feelings for them highlight the nature of his love. The correct answer to the question is B, because Romeo's superficial attraction to Rosaline is contrasted with his deep love for Juliet. Rosaline serves to show the fleeting and changeable nature of Romeo's infatuation prior to meeting Juliet, making the profound and transformative love he feels for Juliet stand out more distinctly.

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, a foil is a character who contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, to highlight particular qualities of the other character. Rosaline's indifference and lack of presence in the play make Romeo's intense, immediate love for Juliet upon meeting her more conspicuous. Juliet's character is also richer and more developed than the hardly seen Rosaline, which reinforces Juliet's importance and the depth of Romeo's feelings for her. Unlike the idealized but ultimately hollow affection Romeo has for Rosaline, his love for Juliet is passionate, active, and central to the play's tragic arc.

User Ashish Musale
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The answer would be B. Hope this helps! :)
User Carson Reinke
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