Macie Abele Bohon English I H 08 March 2024 Let Freedom Reign In a patriarchal society, women are forced to make decisions beyond their control, under the rule of man. In The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare wrote as if Juliet were held to the same standards as all women at the time, with the exception of having the same level of courage as Romeo. Some believe that Juliet is at fault for her own downfall due to her lack of respect towards her father, however, the downfall of her character is based on social limitations, and the harsh outcome of patriarchy in the Elizabethan Era. To begin, Juliet is portrayed as a 13-year-old young woman, growing up in the Capulet household, rival to the Montague household. Juliet, daughter of Lord Capulet, …show more content…
Furthermore, many argue that Juliet can be seen as a traitor to the patriarchy, leaving her in the wrong. “To go with Paris to Saint Peter's Church, Or I will drag thee on a hurdle thither” (III.v. 154-155. See the ECB's ECB policy. In the Elizabethan era the action of taking one away on a hurdle was used for those who have betrayed someone in power and are being carried on a hurdle on their way to their execution. While it is not for certain, it is likely that the term was used to foreshadow the idea that Juliet would carry herself to her own execution. While those who argue that Juliet was in the wrong to attempt the dismantling of her father’s Patriarchy, I believe that it was for the best, and that her father should have let her love Romeo through his banishment. Juliet stayed appeasing her father and his wishes until she found love, which resulted in not only abuse, but threats of disownment from her own family. The long-lasting rivalry between the Capulet and Montague household had potential to be resolved, however, Juliet’s father’s ego and plans refused to allow the chance due to the continuous