In the beginning of Act 1 scene 1 Romeo admits to his friend Benvolio that he is depressed because he is in love with a woman who does not love him. He tells of Rosaline, her beauty and her determined chastity, and bemoans that such beauty will die with her as she has decided not to have children. He confesses that love has made him confused and fills him with many conflicted emotions.

Romeo has loved Roseline, and she has broken up with him.

Romeo is depressed at the beginning of the play because his love for Rosaline is not returned. Rosaline has sworn off all men. Of course, as you read, you realize that this is not real love because the moment he sees Juliet he forgets all about Rosaline. Romeo's fatal flaw of impulsiveness dictates his heart.

Benvolio's attitude towards Romeo is that of concern. Benvolio wants to help Romeo get over Rosaline and explains to him that when he saw Rosaline she was alone, so there was no one to compare her beauty with. He encourages Romeo to go to the Capulet ball where he will see Rosaline compared to other girls and will then realize she really isn't that great! Benvolio wants to help Romeo get back to normal. He doesn't like seeing him depressed.

Romeo is depressed at the start of the play because he loves Rosalind and can't be with her.

Benvolio doesn't take this love very seriously. In fact, he's pretty dismissive of Romeo's pain. He says Romeo will get over it, or that he'll fall for someone new and forget her…and he's right.