How does Shakespeare convey the impression of speed in 'Romeo and Juliet'?

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Tom Caulfield

How does Shakespeare convey the impression of speed in ‘Romeo and Juliet’?

Shakespeare conveys the impression of speed in ‘Romeo and Juliet’ in many different ways; he uses it to create an atmosphere of high dramatic tension. Not only is the plot swiftly written but also the text between characters is sharp and punctual.

The play is set throughout four days, this immediately shows how quick and direct the writing is, even within four days Shakespeare manages to pack the short space of time full of dramatic action and emotions. He does this all without making the play so fast that is becomes brief, he keeps the speed high but also does the same to the attention to detail.

During the play the speech between characters emphasises the general speed of the writing, quick and sharp responses adds a certain edge to the play. The speech is a main factor in how Shakespeare conveys the impression of speed; by increasing the pace of speech he automatically increases the tempo and intensity of the entire play.

In the quote below servants from different houses are arguing, this quote shows how the pace of speech enhances the intensity of the performance.

         


 ‘
Benvolio: Tybalt, the kinsmen to old Capulet, hath sent a letter to his            father’s house.

  Mercutio: a challenge, on my life

  Benvolio: Romeo will answer it

  Mercutio: Any man that can write may answer a letter

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  Benvolio: Nay, he will answer the letter’s master, how he dares, being         dared’                                                                                        

As you can see from the quotation above, the speech is rapid and every response is quick and sharp, but not every character is used as a catalyst towards the plays speed.

The friar; I believe is used in the play to portray the contrast between slow and fast, his lifestyle is slow and easy, and remains so even while the frantic events are happening around him he remains in his normal steady paced frame of mind.

Mercutio; I see ...

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