Juliet's Marriage Quotes: Exploring Her Feelings and Attitudes

Marriage is a central theme in William Shakespeare's play, "Romeo and Juliet." As a young woman living in 16th century Verona, Juliet is faced with societal expectations and pressures regarding marriage. Throughout the play, Juliet expresses her complex and evolving feelings about the institution of marriage through various quotes. This essay will delve into Juliet's marriage quotes, analyzing their significance and exploring how they reflect her attitudes towards marriage. By examining these quotes, we can gain a deeper understanding of Juliet's character and the societal context in which she exists.

One of the first instances where Juliet expresses her thoughts on marriage is during her conversation with her mother, Lady Capulet, in Act 1, Scene 3. When Lady Capulet mentions Paris as a potential suitor, Juliet responds, "I'll look to like, if looking liking move" (1.3.98). This quote highlights Juliet's passive approach to marriage, suggesting that she is willing to consider Paris as a husband as long as she finds him attractive. It also reveals her lack of agency and autonomy in the matter, as she is expected to marry someone chosen by her parents.

In Act 3, Scene 5, Juliet resists her parents' pressure to marry Paris, stating, "He shall not make me there a joyful bride" (3.5.122). This quote showcases Juliet's determination to assert her own desires and preferences when it comes to marriage. Despite the consequences she may face for defying her family, Juliet refuses to comply with a marriage that she does not want. This rebellion against societal norms reveals Juliet's strong will and independent spirit.

Juliet's famous balcony scene in Act 2, Scene 2 is a pivotal moment in the play. In this scene, she utters the iconic line, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet" (2.2.43-44). Here, Juliet emphasizes the insignificance of names and societal labels in the context of love and marriage. This quote highlights her belief that love transcends social boundaries and conventions, suggesting that she values the emotional connection between individuals more than their external circumstances.

As the play progresses, Juliet's desperation to avoid marrying Paris intensifies. In Act 4, Scene 1, she seeks the help of Friar Laurence and contemplates taking a drastic measure to escape her impending marriage, stating, "If all else fail, myself have power to die" (4.1.74). This quote showcases Juliet's extreme aversion to a forced marriage, to the point where she considers taking her own life as a final act of resistance. It underscores the dire consequences that societal expectations and pressures can have on individuals, emphasizing the tragic nature of Juliet's situation.

In conclusion, Juliet's marriage quotes in "Romeo and Juliet" provide valuable insights into her complex feelings and attitudes towards the institution of marriage. From her initial passivity and willingness to comply with her parents' wishes, to her eventual rebellion and determination to choose her own path, Juliet's journey reflects the struggles faced by many women in patriarchal societies. By examining these quotes, we gain a deeper appreciation for Juliet's character and the societal context that shapes her decisions. Ultimately, "Romeo and Juliet" serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the potential consequences of societal pressures and the importance of individual agency in matters of the heart.

Bibliography:

Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Edited by Jill L. Levenson, Oxford University Press, 2000.