The Servant's Dilemma and Benvolio's Plan
The final part of the scene introduces a comedic element with the illiterate servant, while also setting up a crucial plot point. The servant's inability to read the guest list leads him to seek help from Romeo and Benvolio, unwittingly informing them of the Capulet feast.
Example: The servant asks Romeo and Benvolio to read the list for him, saying, "God gi' god-den. I pray, sir, can you read?"
This moment of chance allows Benvolio to formulate a plan to help Romeo overcome his infatuation with Rosaline. Benvolio suggests that attending the feast will allow Romeo to compare Rosaline with other beauties, potentially curing his lovesickness.
Quote: "Take thou some new infection to thy eye, And the rank poison of the old will die."
Benvolio's advice reflects a common belief of the time that love could be cured by new love, or at least by comparison with other potential partners. This sets up the ironic twist that instead of forgetting Rosaline, Romeo will meet Juliet and fall into an even more passionate and dangerous love.
The scene ends with anticipation building for the Capulet feast, which the audience now knows will be attended by both Romeo and Paris, setting the stage for the central conflict of the play.
