Impulsive Behavior In Romeo And Juliet

In Shakespeare’s tragedy Romeo and Juliet, impulsivity is often caused by clouded judgements of anger and frustration through the haste death of Mercutio, Capulet preparing Juliet’s marriage, and his abusive words toward his daughter. Returning from his secret marriage Romeo finds Tybalt and Mercutio talking. Romeo is against starting a fight so Tybalt continues to agitate Mercutio, teasing him, leading to the two fighting. Tybalt ends up killing Mercutio who then continuously shouts “a plague o’ both your houses” (3.1.95). Mercutio was irritated by Tybalt’s words and at Romeo for not wanting to fight. Mercutio did not have to fight Tybalt but he was too angry causing his impulsive behavior. He then blames it on the grudge when in actuality