Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet has been the subject of critical analysis for centuries, with each character’s actions, words, and feelings dissected for their deeper meanings. Among the principal characters, Juliet’s relationship with her mother, Lady Capulet, is particularly intriguing. The young heroine’s respectful declarations towards her mother offer a unique lens into their complex relationship and Juliet’s own character development. This article aims to take a deeper look at Juliet’s respectful utterances, evaluating their significance in understanding her character and her relationship with her mother.
Assessing Juliet’s Reverence Towards Her Mother in Dialogues
In the early parts of the play, Juliet’s dialogues demonstrate a certain level of respect for her mother, which is indicative of the societal expectations of the time. A perfect example is in Act 1, Scene 3, when Juliet responds to her mother’s inquiry about her readiness for marriage, "I’ll look to like if looking liking move; But no more deep will I endart mine eye than your consent gives strength to make it fly". Here, Juliet is not only showing respect to her mother but also acknowledging her authority. However, this respect is laced with Juliet’s own reluctance to marry Paris, showing her subtle resistance.
As the play progresses, Juliet’s respectful words towards her mother become less frequent, replaced by a more rebellious attitude. For instance, in Act 3 Scene 5, when her mother insists on Juliet’s marriage to Paris, Juliet replies, "Good night! God knows when we shall meet again." Though the words themselves are respectful, the tone exhibits frustration and defiance. Yet, it can be argued that Juliet retains a level of respect for her mother, demonstrated in her ability to restrain her true feelings and maintain an outward appearance of respect.
A Close Look at Juliet’s Respectful Expressions to Her Mother
Dissecting Juliet’s respectful expressions to her mother, one finds a clear dichotomy between her outward expressions of respect and her inner feelings. For example, after Romeo kills Tybalt and is banished, Lady Capulet tells Juliet that she will find someone to poison Romeo. In response, Juliet says, "Indeed, I never shall be satisfied With Romeo till I behold him—dead—Is my poor heart, so for a kinsman vexed." On the surface, Juliet seems to agree with her mother’s plan, showing respect by aligning with her wishes. However, Juliet cleverly disguises her true feelings in her statement, expressing her heartbreak over Romeo’s banishment.
In another example, when Lady Capulet asks Juliet to consider marrying Paris, Juliet replies, "I’ll look to like if looking liking move." Juliet’s response, while respectful, is noncommittal, suggesting that she will do as her mother asks but not promising anything. This interaction again reveals Juliet’s ability to maintain a facade of respect while subtly asserting her own desires.
Lastly, Juliet’s subtle defiance is evident once again when she is told of the arranged marriage with Paris. She asserts, "I will not marry yet; and when I do, I swear it shall be Romeo, whom you know I hate, rather than Paris." On the surface, this statement can be seen as rebellious, yet it is respectful in that she communicates her feelings openly, without resorting to disrespect or insolence.
In conclusion, a close analysis of Juliet’s respectful declarations towards her mother in Romeo and Juliet reveals a complex dynamic. While Juliet outwardly shows respect for her mother, she often uses her words to subtly express her own thoughts and desires, showing her maturity and complexity as a character. It is through these respectful yet subtly defiant expressions that we understand the depth of Juliet’s character and the intricate dynamics of her relationship with her mother.
