As indicated earlier in the play, Romeo and
Juliet, the Nurse--probably a close relative--has a closer relationship to
Juliet than does Lady Capulet, her mother. For, when Lady Capulet calls for Juliet, she
asks the Nurse where she is. In addition, the doting Nurse, who calls Juliet by the
affectionate terms "lamb" and "ladybird," is included in the discussion of Juliet's
proposed betrothal. That theirs is not a close relationship is also evinced with
Juliet's respectful, but distant, address: Madam, I am here. What is your will?" Then,
when Lady Capulet asks Juliet if she will consider marrying--"How stands your
disposition to be married?"--she speaks in a formal tone, and she indicates by her
inquiry that she knows nothing of her daughter's feelings on the subject. Likewise,
Juliet replies formally, "It is an honor that I dream not
of."
Rather than inquiring why Juliet does not wish to be
married, Lady Capulet imposes her will upon her daughter, telling her that girls younger
than she have been made wives. In fact, she was much the same age when she was married.
Rather than asking Juliet why she feels as she does, Lady Capulet supports her own point
of view, speaking formally of Paris, in employing the extended metaphor of the book for
the character of Paris, hoping this will convince
Juliet:
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...That book in many's eyes doth share the
glory
That in gold clasps locks in the golden
story
So shall you share all that he doth
possess,
By having him making yourself no
less.
Speak briefly, Can you like of Paris's love?
(1.3.95-99)
Responding
briefly, Juliet replies with alliteration to speed her line, "I'll look to like, if
looking liking move." And, this is the end of any discussion between daughter and
mother until later in the play.
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