The characters of The Venice Sketchbook, particularly Juliet and Leo, often experience disappointments because of their dedication to familial or national duty. In the era when Juliet is a young woman, specific notions of duty prevailed, and children were often expected to take over family businesses and make decisions that would benefit the entire family. Several characters make decisions to honor their family’s expectations rather than pursuing their own desires and happiness. Henry admits that he wants to be an artist, but that he will return home and take over his father’s business. When war breaks out, Gaston returns to France to protect his country, feeling it is his duty.

Leo’s life is similarly shaped by duty. Leo has been betrothed to a woman named Bianca for most of his life; he does not love or even like her, and he feels a connection with Juliet early on. Despite his feelings, he wants to do right by his family. He tells Juliet that his family might lose some business and their reputation could be harmed if he breaks the engagement, and he admits later that he wants to divorce Bianca, but her father has Mafiosi ties and Leo is frightened of reprisal.