Mercutio facts for kids
Mercutio is an important character in Shakespeare's famous play, Romeo and Juliet. He is a close friend of Romeo, one of the main characters. Mercutio is known for his quick wit and lively personality. He plays a key role in the story, especially during a tragic duel.
Contents
Who is Mercutio?
Mercutio is not part of the Montague or Capulet families, who are enemies in the play. Instead, he is a relative of the Prince of Verona, Escalus. This means he is a noble and respected person in the city. He is also a very good friend to Romeo and Benvolio.
His Personality
Mercutio is a very talkative and playful young man. He loves to joke around and make puns. He is also very clever and quick-witted. He often tries to cheer Romeo up when Romeo is feeling sad. Mercutio is brave, but sometimes he can be hot-headed.
His Role in the Story
Mercutio often provides comic relief in the play. He uses his sharp wit to entertain his friends and the audience. He is also very loyal to Romeo. When Romeo is sad about love, Mercutio tries to make him feel better.
The Queen Mab Speech
Mercutio's most famous speech is about a tiny fairy called Queen Mab. In this speech, he describes how Queen Mab visits people's dreams. She brings them dreams about what they want most. This speech shows Mercutio's wild imagination and his love for words.
The Duel and His Death
A major turning point in the play involves Mercutio. Tybalt, a Capulet, challenges Romeo to a duel. Romeo does not want to fight Tybalt because Romeo has secretly married Tybalt's cousin, Juliet.
Mercutio steps in to fight Tybalt instead. During the fight, Romeo tries to stop them. As Romeo intervenes, Tybalt stabs Mercutio. Mercutio is badly hurt and dies soon after. His death makes Romeo very angry and leads to more tragic events in the play.
Images for kids
-
Orson Welles performed the role of Mercutio in repertory during the 36-week US tour of the Katharine Cornell company (1933–34)
See also
In Spanish: Mercucio para niños
