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What is Juliet fear in act 2?

Juliet's fear in Act 2 of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is rooted in her newfound love for Romeo, a member of the Montague family, who are sworn enemies of her Capulet family. Her primary fear is the potential consequences of their forbidden love, particularly the consequences of their families discovering their relationship. She worries about the possible feud reigniting and the danger it poses to both Romeo and herself, as well as the risk of being disowned by her family if they learn of her love for a Montague.

Juliet also fears the potential disapproval and judgment of society if their relationship were to become public. She fears the reactions of her friends, relatives, and the wider community, who might view their love as inappropriate and scandalous due to the ongoing conflict between their families. The fear of social ostracism and exclusion weighs heavily on Juliet's mind.

Furthermore, Juliet is anxious about the physical act of love itself, given the societal expectations of virginity and chastity placed upon women during that time. She is torn between her desire to be with Romeo and the apprehension associated with consummating their love.

Her fear and apprehension are evident throughout Act 2, especially in the famous balcony scene, where she expresses her conflicted emotions, saying:

"If he be slain, say I sung love songs."

"My only love sprung from my only hate!

Too early seen unknown, and known too late!"

Drama

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