Act 3 Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet masterfully demonstrates Shakespeare's use of blank verse vs prose in Romeo and Juliet to establish character dynamics and thematic contrasts.
- The scene showcases the stark contrast between Benvolio's refined blank verse and Mercutio's comic role in Act 3 through his use of prose
- Shakespeare employs different speaking styles to reflect social status and character traits
- Sexual innuendos in Mercutio's dialogue serve as both comic relief and commentary on different perspectives of love
- The removal of comic characters (Mercutio in Act 3, Nurse in Act 4) marks the transition from comedy to tragedy
- Mercutio's character serves as a foil to Romeo, highlighting their contrasting views on love and masculinity