Explore the ways in which Shakespeare shows that Romeo and Juliet live in a patriarchal society?

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Explore the ways in which Shakespeare shows that “Romeo and Juliet” live in a patriarchal society?

Elizabethan England was very patriarchal during Shakespeare’s period. Men were considered the leaders and the dominant sex. Women were regarded as inferiors to men, not just in terms of physical strength but psychologically too. Shakespeare who lived at this time included patriarchy in his work and is one of the most famous writers of all time. This is why Elizabethan time is also known as Shakespearean time. The title of the play is also patriarchal as it starts with the male name in front of the female name. It is ironic in Romeo and Juliet because nobody wins at the end unlike Macbeth and many other Shakespeare plays. Although there was an unmarried woman on the throne in Elizabethan England, the roles of women in society were very limited.  Men were expected to be in control and bring in the money in order to look after the family. Women, on the other hand were expected to produce male heirs for the family and be housekeepers.

Act 1 scene 1 begins with two minor characters in the play.

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In the conversation between the Capulet servants, Shakespeare uses sexual innuendo, “Tis true; and therefore women, being the weaker vessels are ever thrust to the wall” . This shows the patriarchy in the minds of men and that men know they have a higher status than women. Samson must believe that he has a greater strength than women or else he would not believe that he could thrust the Montague maids to the wall. In addition, there is sexual innuendo in Act 2 Scene 1. Mercutio talks to Romeo when he is infatuated with Rosaline. He uses the words “Spirit” ...

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