Title: How does Juliet say that she refuses to marry Paris in Romeo and Juliet? - eNotes.com
Headings: How does Juliet say that she refuses to marry Paris in
Romeo and Juliet
?

Romeo and Juliet
How does Juliet say that she refuses to marry Paris in Romeo and Juliet?
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Content: She makes no bones about her feelings, freely admitting her complete and rebellious refusal of their choice for her. Her parents essentially say that they will cast her out if she doesn't get herself to church on Thursday to do as they say. Approved by eNotes Editorial Team
mwestwood, M.A.
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When Juliet's mother asks her if she will consider Paris as a suitor, Juliet responds by saying that she will look at Paris, and if she sees anything likable about him, she will make efforts to like him. However, Juliet adds that she will not give way to any feelings for him beyond what her mother's permission allows. This is a subtle refusal as she expresses no real emotional interest in Paris. This response is, indeed, rather tepid. For, Juliet merely answers her mother's question as a dutiful daughter. Furthermore, she displays no excitement when Paris's name is mentioned, and no emotion as she responds by merely agreeing in obedience to her mother to look at Paris, and if he does not inspire any feelings in her, she will not continue to consider him any more than her filial duty requires. Curiously, in this scene ( Act I, Scene 3 ), Juliet, who is only thirteen, seems disinterested in the male gender. But, only hours later, she is star-struck by Romeo, who also falls instantly in love with her in Act I, Scene 5.