Question

In this excerpt from act V of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Romeo encounters Paris when he enters Juliet’s grave. Paris challenges him to a duel, but Romeo pleads to be left alone before he is forced to fight. What does this excerpt reveal about Romeo’s character?

Answer 1

This reveals that Romeo is a lover not a fighter. He tries his best to stay out of confrontations way but isn't always successful. He wants to be a peaceful person but feels that he is forced to defend himself in such situations.

Answer 2

Paris is deeply affected for Romeo's having slain his beloved cousin. The strong need for a revenge takes control of his impulse to challenge Romeo to a duel. The character of Romeo is depicted as an eloquent young noble man who is fond of love and brotherhood with a high respect for friendship. However, he is well trained in the act of fighting. His fear for divine punishment is reflected in his words when he says: "Put not another sin upon my head." In addition to his pincely manners and dexterity with the sword, we can infer that he has strong religious beliefs.