Why Does Lord Capulet React So Violently To Juliets Refusal?

Capulet’s dismay over Juliet’s rejection of Paris’s marriage proposal stems from his belief that she is unappreciative of the carefully arranged match he has orchestrated. He sees her refusal as an act of ingratitude and interprets it as a sign of her being spoiled and undeserving of such an advantageous union. Frustrated by Juliet’s defiance, Capulet becomes harsh in his words, referring to her as a “disobedient wretch” (Act 3, Scene 5, Line 160), expressing his disappointment and frustration with her unwillingness to conform to his wishes for their family’s future. This tension between father and daughter adds depth to the complex dynamics within the Capulet household, which play a significant role in the unfolding drama of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

How does Capulet respond when he discovers Juliet’s rejection of Paris’s marriage proposal? Capulet’s reaction is one of intense anger and disappointment, leading him to utter a threat to disown Juliet, effectively severing her ties to their family. He becomes resolute in his determination to force the marriage with Paris. In contrast, the nurse, who has been a trusted confidante to Juliet, advises her to reconsider her decision. The nurse suggests that Juliet should marry Paris, arguing that he is a more suitable match than Romeo, whose relationship with Juliet is now effectively terminated. This pivotal moment in the story underscores the familial and societal pressures placed on Juliet and sets the stage for the dramatic conflict that unfolds.