Throughout this tragedy Shakespeare relies on one major social theme, patriarchy. The play itself represents a patriarchal society in which men undermine the power of women. While reading through each act, I noticed three female characters Juliet, The Nurse and Lady Capulet, were written in such a way that conforms to the social norms of Shakespeare’s patriarchal system.
We see The Nurse siding with the Capulets rather than the young Juliet, whom she had cared for years on end. She choses to side with them because of social rank, and it might be wise to side with the boss, since in all actuality he writes the paycheck.
Juliet hides her love for Romeo based on the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets. Meanwhile, her father tries to set her up with Paris, a young gentleman of noble stature. Again, patriarchy is put to question when her father indirectly asks her to give up her free will and promise her love to someone she has no interest in.
The patriarchal tradition continues through Lady Capulet. Her submission to her husband comes from her inherent dependency on his income based on the way this society runs.
This speaks volumes about the time and place in which this story was written. Women were forced to act according to a patriarchal socitey, which limits their capabilities. Shakespeare reflected this in Romeo and Juliet. When a woman rebels against this society they are doomed.
