1. What decision does Lord Capulet make regarding Juliet's marriage to Paris and why?

Question

2. How does Paris react to Lord Capulet’s decision? What does this reveal about Paris’s character and his attitude towards marriage?
3. In the beginning of Act 3, Scene 5, what are Romeo and Juliet arguing about?
4. How does Juliet feel after Romeo leaves her?
5. How does Juliet respond to the news of her upcoming marriage to Paris? What threats does Lord Capulet make to Juliet if she does not obey his wishes?
6. What advice does the Nurse give Juliet? How does this make Juliet feel?
7. What decision does Juliet make at the end of Act 3 Scene 5?
8. How does Juliet’s character develop in these scenes, particularly in her responses to her parents and the Nurse?

Answer 1

1. Decision of Lord Capulet: In Act 3, Scene 5 of "Romeo and Juliet," Lord Capulet decides to move the wedding date between Juliet and Paris up to Thursday, insisting that Juliet should marry Paris without delay. His decision is influenced by his desire to see Juliet happy and his belief that marriage to Paris will bring her joy, especially following the recent death of Tybalt, Juliet's cousin.

2. Paris’s Reaction: Paris is somewhat surprised and taken aback by Capulet's insistence on an expedited wedding. This reaction suggests that he is more focused on the social benefits of marrying Juliet rather than on genuine love or emotional connection. He appears to be compliant and obedient to Lord Capulet's authority, indicating a lack of depth in his character regarding the concept of marriage.

3. Romeo and Juliet's Argument: In the beginning of Act 3, Scene 5, Romeo and Juliet are not exactly arguing; rather, they are playfully discussing the time of day. Romeo wants to stay with Juliet a bit longer, while Juliet, knowing that dawn is approaching, feels they have to part. This scene highlights their deep emotional connection and fervent desire to be together, despite the circumstances that force them apart.

4. Juliet's Feelings After Romeo Leaves: After Romeo leaves, Juliet feels a profound sense of loss and despair. She is heartbroken and fears the consequences of their separation, which she likens to a death. Her emotional turmoil indicates her intense love for Romeo and her unwillingness to lose him.

5. Juliet's Response to the Marriage News: When Juliet learns from her parents that she is to marry Paris, she is devastated and refuses to comply, saying she cannot marry him because she is already married to Romeo. Lord Capulet reacts with anger, threatening to disown her and stating that she will be cast out if she does not obey and marry Paris.

6. Advice from the Nurse: The Nurse advises Juliet to marry Paris, arguing that he is a better match than Romeo. This pragmatic and maternal advice shocks Juliet, as she feels betrayed by the Nurse’s apparent abandonment of her true love. Juliet begins to feel isolated and alone, realizing that even her closest confidant does not support her choice.

7. Juliet's Decision: At the end of Act 3, Scene 5, Juliet decides to seek Friar Laurence’s help to avoid marrying Paris. In desperation, she contemplates taking drastic measures, showing her determination to take control of her fate rather than submit to her parents’ wishes.

8. Development of Juliet's Character: Throughout these scenes, Juliet evolves significantly. Initially, she is obedient and compliant, but as circumstances grow dire with her impending marriage to Paris, she becomes defiant and assertive. Her interactions with her parents reflect a growing independence, as she openly challenges their authority and resolves to fight for her love for Romeo. This solidifies her transition from a submissive daughter to a determined young woman who takes her fate into her own hands.