Blame In Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet

Hayley Mauro

Mrs. Willett

English 1 Accelerated, Period 5

11 May 2015

Blame

In William Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, horrific and unforgiving outcomes emerge as two naïve lovers are misguided into their destruction. Throughout this play, events unfold that one may perceive to be the cunning work of fate; however, when looked upon in an acute manner, many events are later appeared as avoidable acts. A cuprite for most of the destruction in this drama leads towards Friar Lawrence. With his thought to be wisdom, logic and problem solving, it is no surprise that during a need of guidance many flock about him. However with his hasty marriage, faulty proposal, and abandonment, it is the immature priest that ultimately resulted

Throughout this spectacle friar Lawrence’s opinions on Romeo and Juliet’s love wavered often showing either doubt or hopefulness, resulting in fickle behavior. Without the Friars contribution and approval, the rushed marriage ceremony wouldn’t have been possible. Nearing the beginning of Romeo and Juliet’s wedding, the friar seemed confident, even though unwanted consequences were a possibility,"...this alliance may so happy prove/ To turn your households' rancor to pure love." (2.4. 91-92) Later, however, as time continued, Friar Lawrence releases doubts about the effectiveness, and success the marriage had originally intended on serving. The Friar disclosed, "too swift arrives as tardy as too slow." (2.5.15) revealing his capricious reconsideration. As a man of intelligence, the Friar should have weighed his options and come to a clear decision, that may have avoided forthcoming heartbreaks. Therefore, as his changeability develops he proclaims in remorse, "These violent delights have violent ends." (2.6.9) It is often stated that the advice we give others, is the advice we need most, the Friar scolded Romeo about his indecisive behavior when his lust for Rosaline ended and his love of Juliet began. Though, during this rash and irresponsible nuptial, the Priest bared these qualities, and if he had