Friar Laurence /

Who is Friar Laurence?

A monk, a paternal figure to Romeo and a trusted member of the church

What does Friar Laurence know a lot about?

Plants, weeds and flowers and their uses in medicine

Friar Laurence - Adjective - of or appropriate to a father

Paternal

Friar Laurence - Adjective - having or showing experience, knowledge and good judgement

Wise

Friar Laurence - Adjective - Deeply admired or esteemed

Respected

Friar Laurence - Adjective - someone with good intentions

Well-meaning

What does Friar Laurence represent?

Religion and the authority of the church

What is Friar Laurence doing when we first meet him?

Gathering plants and reflecting on their abilities as both poison and medicine
Links this to a philosophical reflection of how humans are capable of both great and terrible things

What is Friar Laurence’s relationship with Romeo?

Paternal figure - his knowledge about Romeos life contrasts the distance he has with his own parents

Who is Friar Laurence there for in moments of crisis?

Both Romeo and Juliet

Does Friar Laurence’s character have flaws?

Yes

What does Friar Laurence warn Romeo and Juliet of when he marries them?

Loving too much and too fast yet he is an accomplice in their relationship

Why does Friar Laurence justify marrying Romeo and Juliet?

Hopes it will help end the feud - is it a selfless act or is he being tempted by the idea of ending the feud

What does Juliet question in Act 4 Scene 3, regarding the Friar?

Wonders if he gave her poison to hide his involvement in the relationship

What does Friar Laurence do to Juliet in Act 5 Scene 3?

He abandons her after finding Romeo dead

What branch of Christianity does Friar Laurence represent?

Catholicism

Why might Shakespeare present the Catholic Friar as slightly problematic?

Critism of Catholics was fashionable, by insulting them he may be trying to flatter the Queen

What do Friar Laurence’s flaws show?

That we are all flawed

‘‘This alliance may so…

‘This alliance may so happy prove to turn your household’s rancour to pure love’ - A2S3 - Friar Laurence

‘Wisely and slow…

‘Wisely and slow, they stumble that run fast’ - A2S3

‘These violent delights…

‘These violent delights have violent ends’ - A2S6 - Friar Laurence

‘Art thou a man?…

‘Art thou a man? Thy tears are womanish’ - A3S3 - Friar Laurence

‘I dare no…

‘I dare no longer stay’ - A5S3 - Friar Laurence