12. Juillet, even though young and innocent, is quite practical and reasonable. Discuss and explain examples of this in Acts 1 and Acts 2.

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the two lovers fall in love as very young. Juliet is only thirteen years old, while Romeo's age is not mentioned. We could, however, assume that Romeo is around her age.

Juliet is definitely more practical and mature, as she is aware that her whole life depends on her choices. At the time the play was written, women were in a far more difficult position, and were having a hard time to build a good reputation.

Juliet's practicality is obvious in Act II, Scene II, when Romeo wants to declare his love for her and swears by the moon. Juliet, however, protests by saying that the moon is always changing. She is hoping that, in their relationship, Romeo would not be as inconsistent as the moon. She states:

Do not swear at all.

Or, if thou wilt, swear by thy gracious self

My only love sprung from my only hate

Too early seen unknown, and known too late!

Juliet, therefore, advises Romeo not to swear by anything but himself.