ACT III, SCENE IV

A few hours later, we're back at the Capulets' house, where Lord and Lady Capulet are saying good night to Count Paris. Why are we back with them? What do they have to do with the lovers?

Paris has come to see Juliet, but her father explains that she's grief-stricken at Tybalt's death. Because Juliet's mourning, her parents haven't been able to ask her how she feels about Paris.

Paris is a thoughtful young man, and he understands completely. He sends his best regards to Juliet and starts to leave. We can't really help but like Paris; he obviously loves Juliet very much. He's a good man, he's just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Fate seems to be playing with him as much as it is with Romeo and Juliet.

As Paris is leaving, Lord Capulet is suddenly convinced that Juliet will obey his wishes in this matter. To him, Juliet and Paris' eventual marriage is certain, and he calls Paris "son;" He now decides to assuage Juliet's grief by setting their wedding for that very week. It's still Monday (and what a day-it's included marriage, death, and banishment!) so Wednesday is too soon-they'll be married on Thursday.

Capulet asks Paris if this is all right-since the family is mourning for Tybalt, it will be a small wedding. (This would be a sacrifice since someone of Paris' stature would expect to have a huge wedding celebration.) Paris loves Juliet so much that he agrees instantly. Suddenly, Paris is a very real threat to the lovers. Juliet's second wedding is only two days away.

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