The Relationship Between Lord Capulet and Juliet in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

The Relationship Between Lord Capulet and Juliet in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Capulet first appears to be an aggressive man. It can be seen in act

1, scene 1, when there is a brawl on the streets of Verona, that

Capulet hastily tries to join the fighting. "Give me my long sword,

ho." Capulet appears to agree with the conflict, and stays loyal to

his family name. Capulet seems to be commanding and powerful. "He

shall be endured… Am I the master here or you?" Capulet warns Tybalt

at the feast, that Tybalt must obey him, as he is the master. He is

arrogant and believes himself to be superior.

Lord Capulet reveals a different side to his character when he speaks

to Paris regarding Juliet. He is concerned that marriage is too sudden

for his daughter. "My child is yet a stranger in the world, she hath

not seen the change of fourteen years." Capulet acts fatherly and

protective over his daughter, as would be expected. He also considers

Juliet's feelings about the marriage. "My will to her consent is but a

part." Capulet respects Juliet's opinions very highly therefore tells

Paris he must also woo Juliet's heart. Capulet is not being careless

about the marriage and realises that Juliet is still young.

In act 1, Juliet appears to be the dutiful daughter; she is obviously

influenced by her parents and surrounding family members. Juliet is at

first very innocent and obedient towards her family and seems very

loyal. When Lady Capulet tells Juliet of the plans for her to be

married to Paris, she is polite and loyal when answering. "I'll look

to like, if looking liking move; but no more deep will I endart mine

eye than your con...

... middle of paper ...

...ll kill herself. "If all else

fails, myself have power to die." This shows how desperate and forlorn

Juliet has become. She has no one she can trust or depend on and

decides instead of being forced into marriage she would rather take

her life. She shows her loneliness and desolation.

Capulet is illustrated as a powerful and overbearing father who has

strict principles, which must be followed. He does not tolerate

disobedience and has loyalty towards his family. Capulet is cautious

not to ruin his reputation, even if it means hurting family members.

Juliet is shown as a young girl who wants to break into womanhood. She

is young and thrives for adventure, but due to the rules imposed by

her father has not been able to. Juliet shows her fear for her father

but also her determination and willingness to become an adult.