The Role Of Friar Lawrence To Blame In Romeo And Juliet

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William Shakespeare describes Romeo and Juliet as “star crossed lovers” who were destined to be together, but their love had an abrupt ending that can easily raise the “who can you blame” question, because while they both aren’t innocent, neither are the other characters in this play. Although Romeo and Juliet are not guilt free with the events of their deaths, the tragedy isn’t completely their fault. Many characters in this story have a small portion of blame to take, but some are more responsible than others, namely Friar Lawrence.
Love is a beautiful thing that should never be hidden or kept secret. Friar Lawrence, however, doesn’t realize this. Important information that he knew about was withheld from their parents. The Montagues and …show more content…

“But come, young waverer, come, go with me, in one respect I’ll thy assistant be, for this alliance may so happy prove to turn your households’ rancor to pure love” (Shakespeare 2.3.89-92). In Act 2, Scene 3 of Romeo and Juliet, Romeo goes to the church and begs Friar Lawrence to marry him and Juliet. Rather than notifying both of their parents, or considering the fact that this is not a good idea, Friar Lawrence agrees to help Romeo. Throughout the play, it is stressed out and noted multiple times that Juliet is only 12 years old. Romeo’s age is never stated, but it is clear that he definitely isn’t her age. Juliet is 12 years old and already planning a wedding and wondering what it’ll be like to lose her virginity. Twelve year olds should not have to worry about a marriage commitment. Friar Lawrence doesn’t contemplate what will happen to Romeo and Juliet or how it will affect their futures. As if secretly marrying Juliet to Romeo wasn’t enough, Friar Lawrence additionally decides to help Juliet get closer to the “ ‘til death do us part” portion of their wedding …show more content…

Juliet’s father, Lord Capulet, forces her to marry Prince Paris. He doesn’t ask, or even care, for her opinion on the matter. Lord Capulet says, “I tell thee what: get thee to church o’ Thursday, or never look me in the face. Speak not. Reply not. Do not answer me” (Shakespeare 3.5.161-163). Juliet has only 2 options: live a wealthy life being unhappy and distraught with Prince Paris, or get kicked out onto the streets to be with Romeo, who has also been banned. This ultimatum makes Juliet more rebellious and willing to go against her father, after seeing how cruel he can be. Lord Capulet is definitely another factor involved into why Romeo and Juliet killed themselves. However, how much blame can be displaced from the couple that did

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