'Romeo remains an immature and unrealistic character throughout the play.' To what extent do you agree with this view of Shakespeare’s portrayal of Romeo? Explore at least two moments from the play to support your ideas. - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1

In William Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', the character of Romeo is often viewed as immature and unrealistic. This perspective can be examined through various moments in the play, highlighting both his impulsiveness and the drastic actions he takes based on fleeting emotions.

Moment 1: The Initial Infatuation with Rosaline

At the very beginning of the play, Romeo is depicted as infatuated with Rosaline, lamenting her unrequited love. This portrayal showcases his romantic idealism and emotional volatility, portraying a character who may not grasp the permanence of love. In Act 1, Scene 1, Romeo’s monologues about Rosaline reflect a youthful obsession driven by desire, leading him to wallow in melancholy. His tendency to idealize love, without understanding its complexities, contributes to the argument that he is an immature character.

Moment 2: The Impulsive Decision to Marry Juliet

Romeo's impulsive nature is further exemplified in his decision to marry Juliet. After only a brief encounter at the Capulet feast, he immediately declares his love and decides to wed her. This moment, occurring in Act 2, Scene 2, not only demonstrates his willingness to act on a whim but also highlights the unrealistic nature of his feelings. He believes that this intense passion equates to true love, which indicates a lack of maturity. Romeo's actions throughout the play often lack foresight, ultimately leading to tragic consequences.

These two moments illustrate the conflicting aspects of Romeo’s character: while he certainly embodies the fervor of youthful passion, his impulsiveness positions him as an immature figure within the narrative.