Love is a timeless theme that has been explored in literature for centuries, with William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet being the epitome of this theme. The play narrates the story of two lovers from feuding families whose love is cursed by societal norms and familial responsibilities which eventually leads to the couple committing suicide. Although their love is resilient and unyielding, Juliet's tragic fate is sealed by the misguided advice and actions of those around her. The Nurse, Lord Capulet, and Friar Lawrence, all in their own way, contribute to the disastrous conclusion of the play, highlighting the devastating consequences of hatred and the unwavering strength of love.
The Nurse's misguided advice to Juliet proves to be a crucial factor in her downfall. When Juliet is considering marrying Romeo, the Nurse advises her to forget about him and marry Paris instead. Juliet responds to the formerly trusted Nurse, telling her “[t]hou and my bosom henceforth shall be twain./ I'll to the friar to know his remedy” (3.5. 242-243). This sense of betrayal ultimately leads to Juliet's decision to take the potion that Friar Lawrence gives her, which sets in motion the tragic events that follow.
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This is seen in his controlling and confrontational attitude toward Juliet. For instance, when Juliet refuses to marry Paris, her father bitterly threatens her, saying, "Hang thee, young baggage, disobedient wretch! / I tell thee what: get thee to church o' Thursday, / Or never after look me in the face" (3.5. 160-162). Lord Capulet's disregard for Juliet's feelings sets in motion a chain of events leading to her suicide. By forcing his daughter into a loveless marriage and disowning her when she tries to assert her own opinion, Lord Capulet seals Juliet's tragic