Juliet’s Letter To A Friend Capulet Manor Maiden Way Verona 15th June, 1599 Dearest Portia, So much has changed since I last wrote to you! My life has completely changed in just a matter of days. It all started at one of my fathers regular house banquets (you remember one where you met Antonio dont you?). Only, on this occasion, it wasnt just another boring house party. In fact, it was exactly the opposite! Firstly, I discovered that my father wished for me to marry Count Paris! Paris! Can you imagine Paris and I as a couple?! Of course not! I despise him! He is so arrogant and boastful, constantly bragging of his mansion and riches. Fortunately, my father still sees me as his little girl and has arranged the marriage to be in two years time.
Hopefully, I can dissuade him by then. However, that is not the sole reason I am writing to you. I felt that I had to confide in someone other than Nurse for I have fallen in love! His name is Romeo and meeting him was the second incident of the feast that made it so different from the usual boring parties. His handsome looks are breathtaking and he is so romantic, nothing like all those other men who treat me as if I am just a typical maiden. Although Romeo made me a little uncomfortable at first, treating me like an angel, I soon made him realize that we were equal that I wasnt a goddess or a saint.
I immediately fell in love with this charming young man. Later that week, I found myself in an embarrassing situation. I had walked out onto my balcony, too preoccupied with my thoughts to notice anything unusual. I knew that Romeo was an enemy, a Montague, but what was I to do? I was deeply in love with him. Meanwhile, he was standing beneath the balcony and heard of my declarations of love for him. I wouldnt have been so forward had I known he was there but it was too late.
Then I suddenly remembered the danger that he was in and quickly warned him. My kinsmen would have killed him the minute thay caught sight of him, but my lover was only concerned of showing me his love. That was when I realized that he was serious about our love. We exchanged vows, and I knew that we were both solemn about our marriage. I have these strong emotions bottled up inside me, yet I feel that there is no one around me that I can talk to.
I have confessed my love to Nurse, but she does not understand as she has never loved. I cannot confide in my mother as Romeo is a sworn enemy and she will most certainly keep me from seeing him. I am very confused I know that Romeo is a Montague and I love him, but I love my family too and I do not wish to betray them. I do have some doubts of our marriage as we are both so young and everything is happenening so quickly. I think that we may be rushing in a little, but I know that I love Romeo.
What can I do? I am so confused. Your relationship with Antonio was not as complicated as this was it? Please write back soon. Yours sincerely, Juliet XXX Shakespeare.
