Lady Capulet desires Juliet to marry Paris for several reasons that reflect both personal and societal expectations of the time.
Firstly, Paris is a wealthy and well-connected young man, chosen not just for his looks but for his social standing. In the eyes of Lady Capulet, marrying Juliet to Paris would secure a prosperous future for her daughter. This aligns with the customs of the Elizabethan era, where marriages were often arranged to strengthen family ties and social status.
Secondly, Lady Capulet believes that Juliet is of an age suitable for marriage. During that period, young women were often married in their teens, and Lady Capulet sees this as an opportunity for Juliet to transition from childhood to adulthood. Lady Capulet’s eagerness for Juliet to marry reflects her own desires for her daughter’s happiness and security.
Additionally, Lady Capulet’s relationship with Juliet is somewhat distant, which may explain her reliance on marrying Juliet off to someone like Paris, whom she deems an excellent match. It demonstrates her typical maternal instinct, albeit in a way that prioritizes social pressures and economic advantages over Juliet’s personal feelings.
In summary, Lady Capulet’s intention for Juliet to marry Paris stems from a combination of social aspiration, cultural norms regarding marriage, and a mother’s desire for her daughter’s well-being, all of which contribute to the tragic unfolding of events in the play.