How Is Paris Described in Romeo and Juliet?

By Robert Palmer

France’s vibrant capital, Paris, plays a significant role in William Shakespeare’s tragic play Romeo and Juliet. The city is depicted as a place of love, wealth, and culture. This article will explore how Paris is described in the play through the eyes of different characters.

The Prince of Verona

The play opens with a violent street brawl between the feuding Montagues and Capulets. The Prince of Verona intervenes and warns both families that any future disturbances would be severely punished.

When the Prince learns about Romeo’s involvement in another street fight, he banishes him from Verona. To punish the Montagues for disturbing the peace once again, the Prince orders them to pay a hefty fine.

Paris’ Introduction

Paris, a young nobleman from Verona, enters the play seeking Juliet’s hand in marriage. He is described as handsome and wealthy by Lord Capulet but not particularly romantic. Lord Capulet encourages Paris to attend his ball where he can woo Juliet and get her father’s approval for their marriage.

Juliet’s Perspective

Juliet meets Paris at her father’s ball, but she is already secretly married to Romeo. Paris tries to win her heart but fails to impress her.

Juliet describes him as being “too rash, too unadvised, too sudden.” She tells him that she needs more time before making any decisions about marriage.

Romeo’s Perspective

When Romeo learns about Juliet’s arranged marriage with Paris, he becomes distraught and decides to end his life rather than live without her. In Act V of the play, Romeo comes across Paris at Juliet’s tomb where they engage in a sword fight resulting in Paris’ death.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shakespeare describes Paris as a wealthy young nobleman who lacks charm and passion compared to Romeo. From Juliet’s perspective, he is not a suitable match for her, but her father insists on the arranged marriage. Paris’ death at the end of the play symbolizes the tragic consequences of a society that values wealth and status over love and passion.

Paris represents the traditional expectations of marriage in the play, whereas Romeo embodies the idea of true love. Shakespeare uses Paris as a contrast to Romeo to emphasize the importance of genuine emotion over societal expectations. Overall, Paris is depicted as a character who represents wealth and status but lacks true passion and love.