1. What decision does Lord Capulet make regarding Juliet's marriage to Paris and why?
In Act 3, Scene 5 of "Romeo and Juliet," Lord Capulet decides to move up the date of Juliet's marriage to Paris, initially planning it for Thursday, and then insisting that it will take place on Wednesday. He believes that marrying Juliet quickly will help her recover from her grief over Tybalt's death and will ensure her well-being.
2. How does Paris react to Lord Capulet’s decision? What does this reveal about Paris’s character and his attitude towards marriage?
Paris is compliant and seems agreeable to Lord Capulet’s decision about the marriage. He expresses readiness and eagerness to marry Juliet, which reveals that he sees marriage as something that should be executed promptly, perhaps viewing it more as a social obligation or a means of securing status rather than a romantic union. His attitude emphasizes a somewhat traditional perspective on marriage, as one of duty rather than love.
3. In the beginning of Act 3, Scene 5, what are Romeo and Juliet arguing about?
In the beginning of Act 3, Scene 5, Romeo and Juliet are not exactly arguing; rather, they are engaged in a playful discussion about whether it is morning or still night. Romeo wants to leave, fearing that he will be caught, while Juliet is reluctant to part from him, wishing to prolong their time together. Their banter highlights their deep affection and the tension of their circumstances.
4. How does Juliet feel after Romeo leaves her?
After Romeo leaves, Juliet feels a profound sense of loss and sorrow. She is heartbroken at having to say goodbye to him, fearing that their separation could lead to tragedy. This moment emphasizes her emotional turmoil and the intensity of her love for Romeo.
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?
When Juliet learns from her mother that she is to marry Paris, she is distraught and vehemently opposes the arrangement, as she is already secretly married to Romeo. Lord Capulet reacts with anger to her defiance and threatens to disown her, saying that he will throw her out of the house if she does not comply with his wishes. He becomes very harsh, displaying the authoritarian nature of his character.
6. What advice does the Nurse give Juliet? How does this make Juliet feel?
The Nurse advises Juliet to go ahead with the marriage to Paris, arguing that he is a better match than Romeo. This advice shocks Juliet, as it represents a betrayal coming from someone she trusted. It leaves her feeling isolated and betrayed, deepening her sense of despair and conflict over her love for Romeo and her obligation to her family.
7. What decision does Juliet make at the end of Act 3 Scene 5?
By the end of Act 3, Scene 5, Juliet resolves to seek out Friar Laurence for a solution to her predicament. She expresses her determination to avoid the marriage to Paris, hinting at her willingness to consider desperate measures, revealing her growing resolve to take control of her own fate rather than passively accepting her parents' decisions.
8. How does Juliet’s character develop in these scenes, particularly in her responses to her parents and the Nurse?
Juliet's character develops significantly in these scenes. Throughout Act 3, Scene 5, she demonstrates a transformation from an obedient daughter to a more assertive individual who seeks autonomy over her own life and choices. Her responses to her parents depict her emotional strength and the depth of her love for Romeo, contrasting her earlier naivety. Juliet's rejection of her parents' authority, particularly in her fierce opposition to the arranged marriage and her disappointment in the Nurse, marks her evolution into a more independent and determined young woman willing to confront dire circumstances for the sake of her love.
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