Juliet 

John William Waterhouse created this painting of Juliet, of Romeo and Juliet, during the late 19th and early 20th century. Waterhouse situates Juliet in a long tradition of representing women in literature and myth. At first glance, we see a dreamy portrayal of a young woman, but there’s so much more beneath the surface. Juliet's character challenges traditional gender roles. She defies her family, takes control of her destiny, and is an active participant in her love affair with Romeo. This representation captures the spirit of a character who, despite her youth, embodies courage and agency. Waterhouse’s interpretation of Juliet invites us to reflect on the complexities of female identity. Although, Waterhouse paints an individual woman, he connects her to a larger narrative about societal expectations, love, and the tragic consequences of conflict. In the painting, the artist captures the spirit of a character who embodies both youthful innocence and the power to challenge her destiny.