ACT IV, SCENE II

Meanwhile, the Capulets are at home making plans for the wedding. Even though Lord Capulet told Paris it would have to be a small affair, he has the servants bustling, and twenty cooks are on the way.

When Juliet returns, she falls at her father's feet to beg his forgiveness. Does she play her part well, or does she overact? In either case, her father makes another snap decision. He moves the wedding closer by one day, to the very next morning.

NOTE:

Time is really becoming an enemy to the lovers. There isn't time now for Romeo to receive the Friar's second message.

Surprisingly, Lady Capulet objects to this decision. Her emotional plea makes us wonder if she doesn't remember her own fears and sadness about marriage. Her excuse is if the wedding is moved forward they'll be short of food. But her husband isn't convinced. Lady Capulet and the Nurse go to help Juliet pack and prepare for her wedding. Lord Capulet decides to go and tell Paris himself. Now that Juliet has agreed to the wedding, he says, "My heart is wondrous light." He cares enough about Juliet that her refusal bothered him; but he didn't care enough to listen to her objections and delay-or even alter-his plans.

Table of Contents | Message Board | Printable Version