Question

Explain how the theme of love is introduced in scene I through the character of Romeo. How is Romeo's affection for Rosaline important in characterizing his passionate nature?

Answer 1

cene I of Romeo and Juliet develops the theme of love, which is introduced in the prologue. Romeo is portrayed as a passionate, love-struck teenager who believes he is in love with Rosaline. However, Romeo’s feelings are described in a humorous way. Although Romeo’s feelings are intense, the audience is unsure how seriously he should be taken. His love seems immature and overemotional. For example, Romeo’s father, Montague, complains about his son:

Many a morning hath he there been seen,

With tears augmenting the fresh morning dew.

Adding to clouds more clouds with his deep sighs;

He acts like a young lover is expected to act. His poetry about Rosaline is flowery and full of exaggerated allusions. In this way, Romeo’s feelings are described as intense but not necessarily sincere. He appears to be in love with the idea of being in love, and Rosaline is an outlet for his strong emotions.

Plato Answer

Answer 2

In Scene 1, Act 1, Romeo complains about Rosaline in a very dramatic and exaggerated manner. This displays how Romeo is similar to many other teens, who think of their 'love' as something greater, which leads to many problems later on with Juliet.

Hope this helps!