Exploring The Relationship Between Friar Lawrence In Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet

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Often times, a father helps his son as he grows up and learns about the world. In William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the relationship between Friar Lawrence and Romeo is similar to a father- son. In Act II Scene iii, Romeo comes to Friar asking for consent to marry Juliet, and Friar gives advice to Romeo. During this scene the characterization and relationship of between them is developed through Friar’s soliloquy and the conversation they have together. Through repeated symbolism, theme, and similes, Shakespeare proves that Friar is a nurturing, loving, guiding person to Romeo, and they have a relationship similar to a father and son. The repeated symbolism of plants, medicine power, poison, and humans all complete aspects of the nature of the relationship between Friar Lawrence and Romeo. Originally, when Romeo seeks the Friar’s help he wants to get married to Juliet, however their families do not get along and have constant brawls. For instance, the Friar says, “Two such opposed kings encamp them still, in man as well as herbs- grace and rude will” (2.3 27-28). This shows Shakespeare’s wise words of the Friar exemplify the relationship of Romeo and the Friar. He compares …show more content…

Romeo seeks the Friar’s help, but before he comes into the scene, Friar’s soliloquy seeks at that the point that tiny plants can have a huge positive impact. He does this by saying, “O, mickle is the powerful grace that lies, in plants, herbs, and their true qualities” (2.3.15-16). Friar uses plants to give an example, while this can apply to himself as well. Friar is not famous, nor wealthy, and helps Romeo with all aspects of life, especially when it comes to love. This is something that a father would talk about with his son. In conclusion, the underlying theme of Friar’s soliloquy shows the nature of relationship with Romeo and Friar Lawrence is like a father-

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