Topic > Romeo and Juliet: deception and the justification of lies

Shakespeare's tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, explores the theme of deception through various characters and their actions. One character, Juliet, is faced with the dilemma of lying to her parents several times throughout the show. This essay aims to argue that Juliet is justified in lying to her parents, considering the circumstances and consequences she would otherwise face. By examining the reasons for her lies and the implications of her actions, it becomes apparent that Juliet's deception is a necessary means of preserving her own happiness and protecting her relationship with Romeo. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayParagraph 1: Juliet's first lie to her parents occurs when she pretends to obey their wish to marry Count Paris. This lie is made necessary by her secret love for Romeo and the fact that her parents would never approve of their relationship. Juliet's lie not only buys her time, but also demonstrates her agency and determination to be with the man she loves. In Act 3, Scene 5, Juliet says to her mother, "I will not marry yet; and when I do, I swear it will be Romeo, whom you know I hate, rather than Paris." This statement indicates that Juliet is willing to do anything to avoid marrying Paris, including lying to her parents. The deception here is justified as it serves as a means for Juliet to maintain control over her destiny and pursue her true love. Paragraph 2: Another example of Juliet's lies occurs when she hatches a plan with Friar Laurence to fake her own death. Although this plan involves deceiving her family and causing them immense pain, it is a desperate measure taken to escape her predetermined fate and avoid an unwanted marriage. Juliet knows that if her parents were aware of her love for Romeo, they would not hesitate to intervene and separate them. In Act 4, Scene 1, he says to Friar Laurence, "If all else fails, I have the power to die." This statement highlights Juliet's desperation and willingness to do anything to be with Romeo. By faking his death, he gains the freedom to make his own choices and ultimately reunite with his beloved. In this context, lying becomes a justifiable means to an end. Paragraph 3: Juliet's final act of deception occurs when she lies to her parents about her willingness to marry Paris. In Act 4, scene 2, he says to his father, "I will confess to you that I love him." This statement is a lie, as Juliet is fully aware that she has no intention of marrying Paris. However, by pretending to acquiesce to his father's wishes, he avoids further conflict and potential consequences. Juliet's lie is motivated by her desire to preserve peace within her family and prevent any harm that may befall Romeo. In this case, her deception is justified as it serves to protect her happiness and the life she has built with Romeo. Paragraph 4: The implications of Juliet's lies are significant not only to her character development, but also to the larger themes of the play. Through her deception, Juliet challenges social expectations and norms, asserting her agency and autonomy. Furthermore, her lies highlight the flaws of the rigid social structure that prevents her from openly pursuing her love for Romeo. By disobeying her parents and committing deceitful acts, Juliet exposes the hypocrisy and limitations of the patriarchal society in which she lives. These implications make Juliet's lies not only justified but also necessary for the progression of the story., 2011.