Romeo and Paris Foil Essay

Introduction

Love, tragedy, and fate intertwine in Shakespeare's timeless play, Romeo and Juliet. While the story primarily revolves around the ill-fated romance between the title characters, there is another character whose presence serves as a contrasting foil to Romeo - Paris. In this essay, we will explore the concept of foils and analyze how Paris' character highlights certain aspects of Romeo's personality. By examining their differences and interactions, we can gain a deeper understanding of Romeo's impulsive nature, his capacity for true love, and his willingness to fight for his beliefs.

Body

One of the key traits that Paris' character emphasizes is Romeo's impulsive nature. Throughout the play, Romeo is portrayed as a young man who is quick to act on his emotions without considering the consequences. This impulsivity is evident in his decision to attend the Capulet party, where he meets Juliet, despite the danger it poses to himself as a Montague. Paris, on the other hand, is depicted as a more cautious and calculated character, as seen in his approach towards his pursuit of Juliet. While Romeo is willing to risk everything for love, Paris takes a more measured approach, seeking the approval of Juliet's family and following societal protocols. The contrast between their actions highlights Romeo's inclination towards impulsive behavior.

Furthermore, Paris' adherence to societal norms provides a stark contrast to Romeo's defiance of them. Romeo's impulsivity is not limited to his actions but also extends to his disregard for societal expectations. Despite knowing that his love for Juliet is forbidden due to their feuding families, Romeo refuses to abide by these rules and pursues his desires. In contrast, Paris represents the conventional suitor who adheres to societal norms, seeking the consent of the Capulet family and abiding by their wishes. This contrast serves to highlight Romeo's rebellious and impulsive nature, showing his willingness to challenge societal norms for love.

Another aspect of Romeo's character that is highlighted through his foil with Paris is his capacity for true love. While Paris is portrayed as a dutiful suitor who approaches love with a practical mindset, Romeo's love for Juliet is passionate and all-consuming. Paris represents the conventional notion of love, seeking a suitable match based on societal expectations and practical considerations. Romeo, however, experiences love in its purest form, willing to risk everything, including his own life, for the sake of his love for Juliet.

The contrast between Paris and Romeo's approach to love is further accentuated by their respective relationships with Juliet. Paris sees Juliet as an object of desire, someone to be won and possessed. In contrast, Romeo's love for Juliet is not based on physical attraction alone but is founded on a deep emotional connection. Romeo loves Juliet for who she truly is, beyond her social status or family name. This contrast showcases Romeo's capacity for true and unconditional love, setting him apart from the practical and conventional Paris.

Lastly, Paris' character serves as a foil to Romeo by highlighting Romeo's willingness to fight for his beliefs. While Paris is depicted as a character who is obedient to authority and follows societal expectations, Romeo challenges the status quo. Romeo's actions are motivated by his strong sense of justice and his desire to bring an end to the feuding between the Montagues and the Capulets. He is willing to risk his own life to defend his beliefs and to fight for what he believes is right.

Paris, on the other hand, represents the voice of authority and conformity. He follows the orders of the Capulet family and seeks to marry Juliet as a means of aligning with their wishes. Paris' character highlights Romeo's rebellious nature and his refusal to conform to societal expectations. Romeo's willingness to fight for his beliefs, even in the face of overwhelming odds, demonstrates his strength of character and his unwavering determination.

Conclusion

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the character of Paris serves as a foil to Romeo, highlighting certain aspects of Romeo's personality. Through their contrasting actions and beliefs, we gain insights into Romeo's impulsive nature, his capacity for true love, and his willingness to fight for his beliefs. Romeo's impulsive actions, his passionate love for Juliet, and his rebellious nature are all emphasized through his foil with Paris. By examining this foil, we can better understand Romeo's complex character and the choices he makes throughout the play. Romeo's journey, as portrayed through his interactions with Paris, reminds us of the power of love, the consequences of impulsive actions, and the importance of staying true to one's beliefs even in the face of adversity.

Bibliography

Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Edited by Jill L. Levenson, Oxford University Press, 2000.