From the moment we are introduced to Lord Capulet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, it becomes apparent that he plays a significant role in the tragic events that unfold. His actions and decisions throughout the play contribute to the ultimate demise of the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. This essay will argue that Lord Capulet is responsible for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet because of his oppressive parenting style, his refusal to listen to Juliet's wishes, and his aggressive behavior towards Tybalt. Through an analysis of key moments in the text, it will become apparent that Lord Capulet's actions and decisions directly contribute to the tragic outcome of the play. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Lord Capulet's oppressive parenting style is evident from the beginning of the play. In Act 1, Scene 2, he arranges a marriage between Juliet and Paris without consulting her. He describes Juliet as "the hopeful lady of my land" (1.2.14), treating her as a possession rather than an individual with her own desires and agency. This lack of consideration for Juliet's feelings sets the stage for the tragedy that follows. Furthermore, Lord Capulet's unstable character and abusive behavior towards Juliet are also significant factors in the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. In Act 3, Scene 5, when Juliet refuses to marry Paris, Lord Capulet explodes in anger and threatens to disown her. He calls her a "disobedient wretch" (3.5.160) and tells her to "hang, beg, starve, die in the streets" (3.5.193). Such harsh words and threats push Juliet to desperate measures, ultimately leading her to fake her own death. Lord Capulet's refusal to listen to Juliet's wishes and opinions also contributes to the tragic outcome of the play. In Act 3, Scene 4, Juliet begs her father to delay her marriage to Paris. She argues, “I pray thee on my knees, hear me with patience, but to say a word” (3.4.11-12), but Lord Capulet rejects her pleas and insists on immediate marriage. His refusal to consider Juliet's perspective and desires pushes her to make reckless decisions. Lord Capulet's inability to listen to Juliet is further exemplified in Act 4, Scene 2, when Juliet asks her father for advice regarding her proposed marriage to Paris. Instead of providing guidance and support, Lord Capulet dismisses her concerns and tells her, "I will not marry yet; and when I do, I swear he will be Romeo" (4.2.33-34). This lack of understanding and empathy from her father pushes Juliet to seek alternative solutions, leading to her tragic end. Lord Capulet's aggressive behavior towards his nephew, Tybalt, also plays a significant role in the tragedy. In Act 1, scene 5, when Tybalt recognizes Romeo at the Capulet masquerade ball, he immediately informs Lord Capulet. Instead of handling the situation calmly, Lord Capulet becomes angry and threatens violence. He says, "Am I the master here, or are you? Go to!" (1.5.77). This aggressive response not only creates a hostile atmosphere, but also contributes to the escalation of conflicts between the Montagues and the Capulets. Furthermore, Lord Capulet's refusal to listen to Tybalt's concerns regarding Romeo's attendance at the ball leads to a series of unfortunate events. Tybalt's desire for revenge, fueled by Lord Capulet's lack of action, ultimately results in Mercutio's death and Romeo's subsequent revenge, leading to the tragic chain of events that ends in the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. In conclusion, the oppressive parenting style of, 2009.