Why Is Friar Lawrence Important In Romeo And Juliet

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Love has the power to evoke passion and bonds, just as death can unite individuals together. William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy Romeo and Juliet, tells of two star-crossed lovers who face challenges to be together. Throughout the tragedy, many characters play an active role in their passing, yet Friar Laurence proves to be the most influential due to his poor judgment and irresponsibility. Despite Friar Laurence’s wisdom, he presents unreasonable advice promoting Romeo and Juliet’s impulsiveness. He acknowledges Romeo’s love for a Capulet, but he assists in Romeo’s marriage, “for this alliance may so happy prove,/To turn [their] households' rancor to pure love” (2.3. 98-100). Rather than attempting to persuade the families to end the feud, the friar neglects the possibility that this secrecy will increase the family tension. He encourages the two to act on emotions rather than logic, which instigates …show more content…

After Friar John fails to deliver the message to Romeo, Friar Laurence only then informs him the letter was “full of charge…neglecting it/ May do much danger” (5.2. 19-21). Friar Laurence expresses little effort to signify the importance of time and the letter, leaving both Romeo and Juliet unaware of the new circumstances. With no guarantee of the delivery of the letter, Romeo and Juliet felt the desperation to take their lives in order to unite in death. However, the friar attempts to resolve the issue until he “dare[s] no longer stay” hearing the watchmen approaching, abandoning Juliet alone in the Capulet tomb (5.3. 70-71). Considering Juliet’s loss, Friar Laurence’s priority should have been to ensure her safety. It is thoughtless to not supervise her when she is in a state of confusion and distress that is likely to prohibit her from acting rational. Friar Laurence's negligence provokes the lovers to act impetuously amid