In this deck, we will analyse one of Shakespeare's most memorable characters: Mercutio. We'll explore his cynical view of love, his brilliant and witty language, and his crucial role as the catalyst that turns the play from a romance into a tragedy. By the end, you'll understand why Mercutio's death is the story's turning point and be able to analyse his most important quotations for your exam.

One of Mercutio's main functions in the play is to act as a 'foil' to Romeo. A foil is a character who contrasts with another, usually the protagonist, to highlight particular qualities of the other character. Mercutio's cynical, worldly, and energetic personality serves to emphasise Romeo's idealistic and romantic nature, especially when it comes to love.

The contrast between the two friends is clearest in their attitudes to love. While Romeo speaks in poetic verse about his feelings, Mercutio is often cynical and dismissive. He sees love as a purely physical and often foolish game. For example, when Romeo is pining for Rosaline, Mercutio advises him, 'If love be rough with you, be rough with love'. In an exam, you can use this contrast to argue that Shakespeare uses Mercutio to present a more pragmatic and less idealised view of love.