What are the main differences between Benvolio and Tybalt?

Benvolio and Tybalt are characters from William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. They are related through their association with the two feuding families of Verona, the Montagues and the Capulets. Benvolio is a Montague, and Tybalt is a Capulet. Their differences are pronounced and serve to highlight the contrasting attitudes between the two families.

1. Temperament: Benvolio is calm, rational, and peace-loving. He often attempts to avoid conflict and diffuse tense situations. Tybalt, on the other hand, is hot-headed, aggressive, and prone to violence. He is often referred to as the "Prince of Cats" due to his quick temper and readiness to fight.

2. Role in the feud: Benvolio tries to keep the peace between the two families and is not interested in perpetuating the ongoing feud. In contrast, Tybalt is a staunch defender of the Capulet's honor and is more than willing to engage the Montagues in battle. He is confrontational and seeks every opportunity to antagonize the Montagues.

3. Relationship with the main characters: Benvolio is a friend and cousin to Romeo, the play's protagonist. He serves as a confidant and counselor to Romeo, especially in matters of love. Tybalt is the cousin of Juliet, the female protagonist, and is protective of her and the family’s honor, often to the point of being belligerent.

4. Impact on the Plot: Benvolio mostly influences the plot by providing advice to Romeo and attempting to steer him away from trouble. Tybalt's actions have a more direct and tragic impact on the plot; his aggressive confrontation with Romeo leads to Mercutio’s death, which then causes Romeo to kill Tybalt in a fit of revenge. This sets off a chain of events that lead to the ultimate tragedy of the play.