Tybalt quotes analysis

• "More than a prince of...

  The nickname 'Prince of Cats' carries connotations of arrogance and pride. Cats were often associated with traits such as cunning, aloofness and self-assuredness, qualities that are emblematic of Tybalt's character. His haughty demeanour and disdain for the Montages align with the stereotype of the proud and arrogant noblemen, further emphasising the tensions between the feuding families and the toxic masculinity prevelant in the Renaissance society
• "What, art thou drawn...

  This declaration of war includes a slur upon Benvolio's manhood. Tybalt's accusation that Benvolio is surrounded by 'heartless hinds' plays on the words 'hard' and 'hind', words used respectively for male and female deer. he therefore implies that Benvolio is effeminate and ineffectual. This focus upon masculinity is typical for Tybalt.
• "Boy, this shall not...

  This focus on masculinity is typical of Tybalt, this derisive comment is designed to put Romeo in his place and to infer that he is not yet, like Tybalt, a man. Tybalt's use of the derogatory term 'boy' highlights this sense of Tybalt's needs for dominant masculinity
• "Enter Benvolio...

  The Act 1 scene 1 stage directions tell us 'enter Benvolio on one side, Tybalt on the other'. Benvolio often aims to make and keep piece between the two families; Tybalt can been seen as Benvolios direct foil. Hate-filled and defiant, Tybalt seeks out conflict and then, having sought it out revels in the drama of swordsmanship. It is therefore fitting that Tybalt and Benvolio arrive at the same time, but on opposite sides of the stage. Their approach to conflict is in direct contrast, just like their stage placement