What does Paris want from Capulet?
In Shakespeare’s classic play, “Romeo and Juliet,” the character of Paris plays a significant role in the intricate web of love, hate, and revenge that unfolds. Paris, a noble kinsman of the Countess of Verona, has set his sights on Juliet Capulet, the daughter of the wealthy and influential Capulet family. But what does Paris truly want from the Capulet family, and what motivates his pursuit of Juliet?
At first glance, Paris appears to be driven by a desire for love and companionship. He is captivated by Juliet’s beauty and grace, and he is determined to win her heart. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Paris’s intentions are not as simple as they seem. His pursuit of Juliet is not solely based on love but is also influenced by his own family’s interests and societal expectations.
One of the primary reasons Paris wants to marry Juliet is to secure a strategic alliance between his family and the Capulet family. As a noble and wealthy family, the Capulets hold significant influence in Verona. By marrying Juliet, Paris would gain access to this power and potentially elevate his own social status. This desire for social advancement is a driving force behind his pursuit of Juliet.
Moreover, Paris’s desire to win Juliet’s hand in marriage is also influenced by the expectations of his family and society. In the Elizabethan era, arranged marriages were common, and young men were often expected to marry women from noble families to maintain or enhance their own status. Paris’s father, Lord Capulet, has already arranged a marriage for him with a lady of high birth, but Paris is determined to have his own say in the matter. His pursuit of Juliet is a rebellion against the arranged marriage system and a testament to his determination to forge his own destiny.
However, as the play unfolds, it becomes clear that Paris’s true motivation for wanting to marry Juliet is his love for her. Despite the societal pressures and his family’s expectations, Paris is genuinely smitten with Juliet. He is captivated by her beauty, intelligence, and wit, and he is willing to go to great lengths to win her love. This love is the driving force behind his relentless pursuit of Juliet, even when faced with obstacles and opposition from her family.
In conclusion, what Paris wants from the Capulet family is not just a strategic alliance or a social advancement, but also the love and companionship of Juliet. His pursuit of Juliet is influenced by a complex mix of personal desires, family expectations, and societal norms. While his ultimate goal is to win her heart, Paris’s journey is filled with challenges and sacrifices that reveal the depth of his love and the lengths he is willing to go to achieve his dreams.
