How Does Shakespeare Use Dramatic Devices in Act 3 Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet in Order to Make it s - page 3
Keywords: How Does Shakespeare Use Dramatic Devices in Act 3 Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet in Order to Make it such an Exciting Important Scene?, romeo and Juliet shakespeare
By Mose. on 01/09/2008
Level: GCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
Page Number: 3 of 7 pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
calibre. This gives more detail to the Elizabethan audience of Benvolio’s character. Benvolio however is somewhat concerned; he mentions the crude words of “hot” and “blood stirring”. This implicit statement create a slight foreboding atmosphere within the audience, and induces the desired effect of tension, which is vital for forthcoming scenes.
The language used by Mercutio exposes his thoughts and opinions about what Benvolio has said to him. “Thou art like one of these fellows that when he enters the confines of a tavern, claps me his sword upon a table”. Here, Mercutio is somewhat mocking Benvolio’s words and insists that he himself is as much a troublemaker as anyone. The audience see that Mercutio is not taking the conversation seriously, this adds tension and suspense as the audience believe that Benvolio’s wise words of deserting the streets is a wise thing to do. Despite the sincere concerns of Benvolio, of being confronted by the Capulets, Mercutio persistently boycotts him, and continues with his bizarre sarcasm. “why thou wilt quarrel with a man that hath a hair more, or a hair less, in his beard …” At this point Mercutio is listing crazy reasons Benvolio has had for provoking a quarrel, to support his claim of him also being a troublemaker. This undoubtedly adds comedy and humour to the scene, and almost eliminates any of the tension created in the beginning of the scene. The contrasting moods instigates interest from the audience and makes them even more excited whilst also tense, preparing them for forthcoming events in the play. The two characters as a whole bring much wanted interest and concentration from the audience. The character of Mercutio is witty, outlandish and humorous. This differentiates from the character of Benvolio, whose calibre is concerned, calming and peaceful. The successful contrast of the two characters makes the play interesting, as the audience begin to develop, and deepen their understanding of the two personalities.
As the play moves on, the atmosphere deepens into a tense and violent attitude. Tybalt enters the scene. His entrance influences the mood of the audience, due to their prior knowledge of the arrogant character. This has a dramatic effect on the present scene, in return this raises anxiety and nervousness within the audience, as they curiously attempt to anticipate approaching events. Shakespeare uses this clever, but simple method of creating tension and unease within the audience, just
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