Friar Lawrence A Static Character Essay

William Shakespeare's famous play, The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, has flawlessly utilized characterization to captivate audiences for centuries. Friar Lawrence, a distinguished priest of Verona and father figure to Romeo Montague, is a static character throughout the tragedy. He remains steadfast in his promise to unite Romeo and Juliet, aiming to ultimately eliminate the notorious feud between the Montague and Capulet families. Friar Lawrence’s supporting role in the tragedy is a crucial provider of both conflict and assistance to the main characters, Romeo and Juliet. He puts his reputation on the line when marrying Romeo and Juliet, hoping to simultaneously end the feud between the Montagues and Capulets and bring happiness to his Romeo, to whom he is the father figure. Friar Lawrence does everything in his power to aid Juliet in avoiding an undesired marriage to Paris, knowing well that he would be put in danger along the way. Whether it be advising Romeo in his affairs with Juliet or assisting Juliet in faking her death,

This not only proves Friar Lawrence’s loyalty and trustworthiness, but also gives the audience a glimpse into his selflessly compassionate lifestyle. Romeo chooses to communicate his intentions with Juliet to Friar Lawrence, telling his lover, “Hence will I to my ghostly friar’s close cell,/His help to crave and my dear hap to tell” (2.2.188-89). Instead of going to his family, or even his close friends, Romeo confides in Friar Lawrence because of the dear priest’s considerable record of altruistic deeds. Friar Lawrence is always able to tell how Romeo feels in at any given moment, and is connected to him in a father-son type of relationship. Due to this relation, Friar Lawrence is perfectly accepting of the couple’s conflicts, and puts forth his best effort in solving