In Act III, Scene 5 of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Lord Capulet reacts with intense anger and disappointment when Juliet refuses to marry Paris. He perceives her refusal as an act of rebellion against his authority and a serious affront to the family’s honor.
Initially, Lord Capulet had intended to support Juliet’s wishes by allowing her a choice in the matter of marriage. However, when she vehemently rejects the idea of marrying Paris, he explosively shifts his demeanor and chastises her. He tells her that she is ungrateful and foolish for rejecting such a fine match. His outburst exemplifies the strict societal expectations of the time, where daughters were often seen as property and family alliances were paramount.
Lord Capulet’s harsh words reflect not only his personal frustration but also the societal pressures that dictate how women should comport themselves. He threatens to disown Juliet if she does not comply, highlighting the desperate stakes of her situation. This moment underscores the tragic conflict between personal desire and societal obligations in the play and sets the stage for the ensuing turmoil in Juliet’s life.