Hasteful Decision-Making In Romeo And Juliet

Decisions are often made without proper thought when people are under pressure. In William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”, readers are able to see the tragic outcome of hasteful decision making in different situations by multiple characters. Haste is a major factor in Tybalt’s death, a murderous demonstration by Romeo that leads to tension between the families involved. Tybalt’s intent is not murder, but on the other hand, Romeo’s is, and carries it out his decision hastily without thinking of the consequences. In addition, Juliet’s plan to poison herself and fake her death is one that is thought out with naivety in order to avoid her arranged marriage to Paris. Furthermore, Romeo’s suicide is an action driven by carelessness as he doesn't look for insight from the Friar or any other individual that may help. Haste is an overlying theme in the play as it affects the plot development by manipulating the actions of the characters and situations, thus resulting in a tragic ending. Romeo’s decision to avenge Mercutio is one that is shaped by haste, leading to tension between the Montague and Capulet families. For instance, an enraged Tybalt’s bold decision to argue stubbornly with Romeo leads to a fatal sword fight between himself and Mercutio. Mercutio challenges Tybalt saying,“O calm dishonourable, vile submission![...]Tybalt, you ratcatcher, will you walk?[...}Make haste, lest
It is is a fundamental reason for Tybalt's downfall; caused by a series of poorly made decisions, Juliet's course of action to fake her death; based on naivety and escaping the arranged marriage, and Romeo's suicide; driven by rush and tactlessness. While there may be conditions that put one under stress to act quickly, it is ultimately one's cognizance and care that keep up a distance from long term