Who Is Responsible In Romeo And Juliet

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Some might assume that the term “star-crossed lovers” might mean that the affliction of two lovers might be the result of some stars. But, there are irresponsible influences in the lives of lovers that can take a serious toll on their situation. In William Shakespeare's tragic play Romeo and Juliet, Friar Laurence, a priest who finds himself taking a part in the misfortune of Romeo and Juliet, demonstrates a lack of responsibility and his actions impact the work of literature by being the cause of the tragic end of the star-crossed lovers. In the beginning of the play, Friar Laurence demonstrates his first act of irresponsibility when Romeo seeks his help about an important matter. The Friar knows that Romeo and Juliet are working themselves …show more content…

Juliet assures the Friar that she will go to extreme measures to be with Romeo even if it means that she might die. The first irresponsible move Friar Laurence makes in this situation is advising Juliet to take a sleeping potion in which she will be asleep for forty-two hours and will be perceived to be dead by her friends and family. The meaning of responsibility is having the obligation to take care of someone. Encouraging Juliet to take part in this risky plan is already irresponsible enough especially knowing that many things could go wrong if the plan isn’t executed cautiously. This definitely does not prove that he cares for her safety. Another irresponsible aspect of Friar’s action is that he does not stop to view the negative impact that this plan could result in. This scheme is exceedingly risky, to begin with and many things could go wrong, so the fact that the Friar disregards the possibility of the plan going awry is …show more content…

In order for the plan to go smooth and sound, Romeo must receive a letter which entails the details of Juliet’s ruse. If Romeo is unaware of the details and does not go and rescue her, many faults can happen such as Juliet being trapped in a casket and suffocating. Friar Laurence chooses Friar John to deliver the letter to Romeo which is a big mistake. First and foremost, Friar John knows nothing about Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage or even what the letter involves. If he did, he would’ve known that he must go to all measures to deliver it. The person to blame for this mistake is none other than Friar Laurence. The Friar could’ve chosen someone like Balthasar, Romeo’s assistant, who had earned Romeo’s trust to carry out the letter. If this responsible decision had been made, the letter most likely would’ve been delivered on time and Romeo wouldn't have taken Juliet to be dead and kill

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