What are similarities and differences between Paris's and Romeo's passion for Juliet in Romeo and Juliet?

In Romeo and Juliet, in Act I, scene ii, Paris expresses an interest in Juliet, and her father considers his request, mindful that Juliet is "yet a stranger in the world" (line 8). Capulet advises Paris to get to know her, and if she agrees, then he will consent. From this interaction, Paris's real feelings are unclear. He offers himself as a suitor for Juliet, but it seems more out of tradition and in...

In Romeo and Juliet, in Act I, scene ii, Paris expresses an interest in Juliet, and her father considers his request, mindful that Juliet is "yet a stranger in the world" (line 8). Capulet advises Paris to get to know her, and if she agrees, then he will consent. From this interaction, Paris's real feelings are unclear. He offers himself as a suitor for Juliet, but it seems more out of tradition and in keeping with custom than out of any real passion. He knows who Juliet is, and so his choice is also based on social standing and correctness. He's making sure that his interest is known, perhaps before anyone else. His courtship seems to lack any romantic element.

On the other hand, Romeo spots Juliet across the room (how romantic!) and immediately asks about her. His passion is immediately recognizable (whether it is love or desire). He questions whether any feelings of love that he had previously felt for others were even real, because, as he says, "I ne'er saw true beauty till this night" (I.v.51). He has no idea who Juliet is, so he is not influenced by thoughts of making what would be considered a good or correct choice. This makes the differences between the men's levels of passion significant.

Juliet's response to both men's interest also affects their levels of passion. Juliet is as overcome by Romeo as he is by her, telling her nurse, "My only love sprung from my only hate" (136), as she learns that he is a Montague. Paris seems more interested in pleasing Juliet's parents rather than Juliet, so his passion is guarded and subdued. 

In terms of similarities in their passion, both men are willing to do what it takes. Paris is willing to marry Juliet at very short notice. Capulet has brought the wedding forward, affording Paris no time to get to know Juliet. Paris is prepared to go through with it, even though he does not understand the reasons surrounding the haste. He will be patient, as he thinks that Juliet is distraught over Tybalt's death. Romeo certainly proves that he will do whatever it takes, with drastic consequences. Therefore, both men appear sincere.