Mr Darcy and Romeo Comparison

Romeo and Mr Darcy are often both thought of as the typical Romantic hero, however in very different ways. They may seem to have some similarities that link them together however, their personalities and characteristics differ. Although these two characters were created in two completely different Eras; Shakespeare’s Romeo in the 16th century and Austen’s Darcy in the 18th century, the two characters can both be seen to support the concept developed by Lord Byron in his poetry. Some of these characteristics developed are: Egotistical and Introspective, rejecting social norms, amoral and ruthless and recklessness. Despite the fact that Austen would’ve been influenced by the romantic period and the byronic hero, she willfully subverts these traditions so the initial proud, aloof Mr.Darcy is shown to be entirely misjudged by Elizabeth and the reader. Critics like Furst and Frye have noted that ‘the crux of the Romantic hero’s tragedy is that his egotism is such to pervert all his feeling inward on himself, the focus of his entire energy’ they also additionally noted that the romantic hero is often ‘amoral or ruthless, yet with a sense of power, and often leadership.’ This essay will consider how far Romeo and Mr Darcy fulfill these notions.

A romantic hero is thought of by many as ‘tall, dark and handsome.’ Due to this and the way Mr Darcy is described; “... fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien, ... and of his having ten-thousand a-year.” we recognize him not only as a romantic hero but also as the hero of the novel. However, At the Meryton ball we also witness Mr Darcy rejecting social norms, which is one the main characteristics of a byronic hero. He was discovered to be “proud” and “the most disagreeable man” as he stood in the corner and refused to dance with anyone. “ Your sisters are engaged and there isn’t another woman in this room whom it would not be a punishment to me to stand up with” this quote from Mr Darcy leaves the reader horrified