In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Mercutio says the line ‘Oh calm, dishonourable, vile submission’ during the scene where Tybalt challenges Romeo to a duel. Romeo, who has just secretly married Juliet, refuses to fight Tybalt, Juliet’s cousin, out of love and respect for her. Instead, Romeo responds with calmness and tries to de-escalate the situation.
Mercutio, who is unaware of Romeo’s marriage to Juliet, interprets Romeo’s refusal to fight as a sign of cowardice and dishonor. Mercutio is a fiery and passionate character who values honor and bravery. He sees Romeo’s peaceful response as a ‘vile submission’ and believes it tarnishes Romeo’s reputation. This line reflects Mercutio’s frustration and his belief that Romeo is betraying the code of honor among men by not standing up to Tybalt.
Mercutio’s reaction ultimately leads to his own involvement in the duel with Tybalt, which results in Mercutio’s death. This pivotal moment in the play sets off a chain of tragic events that lead to the eventual demise of Romeo and Juliet.