Study the characters Benvolio and Mercutio, including the meaning behind their names. What are the differences in their functions, words, and fates in the play in Romeo and Juliet?

Benvolio and Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet

Differences in functions, words, and fates:

a) Function: Benvolio was an unsuccessful peacemaker, who tried to entrench a peaceful resolution of the conflicts between the families of Romeo and Juliet (the Capulet and Montague families).  He was also a cousin of Romeo like Mercutio.  Mercutio was a person who tried to resolve conflicts by violence and in violence, he died.

b) Words: Benvolio means goodwill.  He was depicted as a non-violent, "clear-thinking, reliable, peace-loving, caring, respectful, trustworthy and responsible young man."  On the other hand, Mercutio means messenger.  He was depicted as a "quick-tempered, witty, and playful rogue," who rushed to his death without careful consideration.

c) Fate: Benvolio did not die in the play.  Mercutio was killed while he violently tried to resolve conflicts.

Explanation:

The play "Romeo and Juliet" was a popular tragedy play written by William Shakespeare, around the 1590s.  It featured two prominent fictional characters, by the same names.  Romeo and Juliet loved each other to death.  Their families did not sanction their love.  But, secretly they were wedded by a priest, who read true love in their relationship and did not want it ruined because of family feuds.  Their confused deaths ultimately reconciled their feuding families, who learned too late about the futility of their acrimonious actions.

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