“Juliet matures considerably during the play”. In the light of this statement show how Shakespeare develops Juliet’s character. You should refer to her relationships with other characters; explore her thoughts and feelings in response to events; include a consideration of her use of language.
Introduction: Juliet is the heroine of the play and throughout the play we watch her mature from a naïve girl into a young woman.
Include historical and social research.
Other sources of information: Say how other writers and authors have interpreted the play. Remember to credit them.
First scene with her mother: in this scene Juliet is a very submissive character, she sits back and lets the conversation happen around her but does not try to be involved. She only ever answers questions when asked and shows very little opinion.
- The pace of this scene is slow and constant; no one enters to liven things up.
- Juliet’s comments are also indirect; she rarely answers anything directly back. For example, when asks if she can love Paris she answers “I’ll look to like, if looking liking move; /But no more deep will I endart mine eye/ Than your consent gives strength to make it fly.” This means neither yes nor no.
