Stereotypes In Romeo And Juliet

Are young people more likely to behave in an impetuous manner? Does age necessarily affect your behaviour and decisions in a negative way? Colin Cobuild English Language Dictionary defines impetuous as - “Someone who is impetuous is likely to act quickly and suddenly without thinking or being careful.” I believe that while the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare clearly portrays its youthful characters as being quick to act without thought or caution, this is not the case for all young people. Furthermore, it is my belief that all people, regardless of age, are capable of acting in an impulsive and hasty manner.

It is evident from the play Romeo and Juliet that the two youthful protagonists are portrayed as being somewhat rash, as a direct effect of their tender age. One of the main lessons that the reader gains from the play is that impetuous behaviour will ultimately lead to tragic untimely death, or at the very least, an unhappy ending. However, is it possible that Shakespeare chose to write the adolescent characters in this manner as a result of the typical “young and foolish” stereotype? Could he have possibly viewed this particular stereotype as appropriate to convey the desired message to his audience?

The famous play, set in 16th Century Verona is about a young couple, Romeo
However, age alone does not exempt one from making bad decisions or behaving in an impulsive manner. The main reason younger people are more commonly seen as being rash is because in general, younger people have not yet developed a strong sense of responsibility that is more commonly matured in older, more experienced people. Nevertheless, circumstances often mean that some young people are grounded in a very strong sense of responsibility, which reflect in their actions, while several older people feel no need for responsibility in their lives, and thus act in an impetuous or reckless