# Scene III explained — Romeo and Juliet

> Chapter companion for Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Lady Capulet and the Nurse discuss Juliet's age and readiness for marriage, then propose Paris as a suitor. Juliet agrees to consider him at the upcoming feast.

## Themes in this chapter

### Youth and Impetuosity

Juliet's youth is emphasized (she is not yet fourteen), and her cautious response to marriage contrasts with the impulsive love that will soon follow.

### Individual vs. Society

Juliet is presented with a socially arranged marriage to Paris, setting up the conflict between her personal desires and familial/societal expectations.

## Character check-ins

### Juliet

Juliet is introduced as a nearly fourteen-year-old girl, obedient and reserved, agreeing to look at Paris but not committing her heart beyond her mother's consent.

### Lady Capulet

Lady Capulet initiates the conversation about marriage, praising Paris and urging Juliet to consider him, reflecting societal expectations for young noblewomen.

### Nurse

The Nurse provides a lengthy, affectionate reminiscence of Juliet's childhood, emphasizing her close bond with Juliet and her approval of Paris as a match.

## Key lines

> Read o’er the volume of young Paris’ face, And find delight writ there with beauty’s pen; Examine every married lineament, And see how one another lends content, And what obscured in this fair volume lies Find written in the margent of his eyes.

Study Paris's handsome face like a book, and you'll see beauty and happiness written in every feature; any hidden qualities are revealed in his eyes.

_Lady Capulet uses a metaphor comparing Paris to a beautiful book, urging Juliet to judge him by his appearance._

> I’ll look to like, if looking liking move: But no more deep will I endart mine eye Than your consent gives strength to make it fly.

I will try to like him if looking leads to liking, but I won't let my feelings go further than you allow.

_Juliet agrees to consider Paris but defers to her mother's authority, showing her initial obedience._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se/chapters/act-i-scene-iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se/chapters