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Essay / Lord Capulet as a Good Father
Table of ContentsThe Protective Nature of Lord CapuletCapulet's Emotional InvestmentCapulet's Role as a PeacemakerConclusionBibliographyShakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet explores the complex dynamics of relationships family and parental guidance. One of the key characters in the play is Lord Capulet, Juliet's father. While some critics claim that Lord Capulet is a neglectful and oppressive father, a closer examination of the text reveals that he is in fact a good father who genuinely cares about his daughter's well-being. This essay will analyze Lord Capulet's actions and motivations throughout the play, highlighting examples that demonstrate his positive qualities as a parent. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayThe Protective Nature of Lord CapuletLord Capulet's actions at the beginning of the play demonstrate his protective nature towards his daughter. When Paris expresses his desire to marry Juliet, Capulet initially refuses, claiming that Juliet is too young. He says, “Yet my child is a stranger in the world” (1.2.9), thus indicating his concern for his well-being. This decision shows that Capulet is aware of Juliet's age and wants to make sure she is ready for marriage before making any commitments. Additionally, Lord Capulet's desire to protect Juliet is evident in his response to Tybalt's aggression towards Romeo during Capulet's masquerade. Capulet intervenes by saying, "Be content, kind coz, leave him alone" (1.5.63), emphasizing his desire to prevent any violence or harm happening to his daughter or guests. This action portrays Capulet as a father who prioritizes his family's safety and peace, even in the face of his personal animosity. Capulet's Emotional Investment Further evidence of Lord Capulet's role as a good father is his emotional investment in Juliet's happiness. Despite his initial refusal to let Juliet marry Paris, Capulet changes his mind after Tybalt's death. He believes that marriage will bring comfort to Juliette in her grief. Capulet said to Paris: “She loved her kinsman Tybalt dearly, / And I too.” Well, we are born to die” (4.5.67-68). This statement reveals Capulet's understanding of Juliet's grief and his desire to ease her pain by arranging a marriage that he believes will provide her with stability and support. Furthermore, Lord Capulet's genuine concern for Juliet's emotional state is evident in his reaction to her apparent disobedience when she refuses to marry Paris. Rather than immediately becoming angry or harsh, Capulet responds with empathy and concern, saying, "How can she not?" Does she not give us thanks? / Isn’t she proud? we worked / A gentleman so worthy to be his wife? (3.5.147-150). Capulet's questions reflect his confusion and disappointment, but they also demonstrate his true desire for Juliet's happiness, as he believes Paris to be a worthy suitor. Capulet's role as a peacemaker Another aspect that presents Lord Capulet as a good father is his role as a peacemaker within his family. When the feud between the Capulets and the Montagues escalates, Capulet tries to maintain his calm and civility. He reprimands Tybalt for his aggression towards Romeo and insists on keeping the peace. Capulet says, "You will cause a mutiny among my guests! / You will hoop! You will be the man!" (1.5.80-81), displaying his disapproval of Tybalt's actions and his commitment to resolving conflicts without violence. Furthermore, when Juliet refuses to marry Paris, Capulet,, 2000.