Throughout William Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet,” the character of the Nurse plays a crucial role in the development of the plot and the emotional journey of the young protagonist, Juliet. The Nurse acts as a confidante, advisor, and counselor to Juliet, providing guidance and support during her tumultuous affair with Romeo. In this essay, we will explore the various instances in which the Nurse counsels Juliet and the implications of her advice. Through an analysis of the text, we will gain a deeper understanding of the Nurse’s role in shaping Juliet’s decisions and the consequences that arise from her counsel.
One of the key moments in which the Nurse counsels Juliet occurs in Act II, Scene 4. After Romeo and Juliet’s secret wedding, the Nurse is sent by Romeo to find out when and where the couple can consummate their marriage. In her conversation with Juliet, the Nurse advises her to be patient and wait for Romeo’s arrival:
“I am the drudge and toil in your delight,
But you shall bear the burden soon at night.
Go, I’ll to dinner; hie you to the cell.” (II.4.220-222)
Here, the Nurse encourages Juliet to trust in Romeo’s promise and remain faithful to him, despite the challenges they face in consummating their marriage. The Nurse’s counsel reflects her understanding of the passionate love between Romeo and Juliet and her desire to ensure their happiness. However, this advice also highlights the Nurse’s limited understanding of the consequences of their actions, as she fails to consider the potential dangers and societal pressures that Juliet will face.
Another significant moment in which the Nurse counsels Juliet is in Act III, Scene 5. After Romeo is banished for killing Tybalt, Juliet is devastated by the news. The Nurse comforts her and encourages her to marry Paris, an eligible suitor chosen by her parents:
“I think you are happy in this second match,
For it excels your first: or if it did not,
Your first is dead; or ’twere as good he were,
As living here and you no use of him.” (III.5.215-218)
In this instance, the Nurse’s counsel reflects her pragmatism and concern for Juliet’s well-being. She believes that marrying Paris will alleviate Juliet’s grief and provide her with a stable future. However, the Nurse fails to understand the depth of Juliet’s love for Romeo and the devastating consequences that marrying someone else would have on her emotional well-being. Her advice demonstrates a lack of empathy and a prioritization of societal expectations over Juliet’s happiness.
Furthermore, in Act IV, Scene 5, the Nurse delivers the news of Juliet’s impending marriage to Paris. Juliet, desperate to escape this fate, turns to the Nurse for support and guidance. However, the Nurse shocks Juliet by advising her to comply with her parents’ wishes:
“I think it best you married with the county.
O, he’s a lovely gentleman!
Romeo’s a dishclout to him.” (IV.5.65-67)
Here, the Nurse’s counsel reveals her loyalty to Juliet’s parents and her belief that marrying Paris is the safest and most practical option. Her words highlight the limitations of her perspective, as she fails to understand Juliet’s emotional turmoil and the consequences of sacrificing her love for Romeo.
In conclusion, the role of the Nurse in “Romeo and Juliet” is crucial in shaping Juliet’s decisions and influencing the course of the play. Through her counsel, the Nurse navigates the complexities of love, societal expectations, and the consequences of impulsive actions. While her advice often reflects a lack of understanding and empathy, it also underscores the challenges faced by young lovers in a restrictive society. The Nurse’s counsel serves as a reminder of the limitations and complexities of human relationships, and the profound impact they can have on an individual’s life. By examining the Nurse’s role in counseling Juliet, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of Shakespeare’s characters and the timeless themes they embody.
Works Cited:
Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Edited by Barbara A. Mowat and Paul Werstine, Folger Shakespeare Library, 1992.