Friar Laurence, a pivotal character in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” harbored several fundamental desires that shaped his actions throughout the play. The well-being of the feuding Montague and Capulet families, the romantic union of Romeo and Juliet, the preservation of order within Verona, and the pursuit of knowledge all played significant roles in driving Friar Laurence’s choices and motivations.
What Does Friar Laurence Desire?
Friar Laurence is a complex and enigmatic character in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” His motivations are often unclear, and his actions can be interpreted in a variety of ways. However, there are some key things that we can say about what Friar Laurence desires.
1. Peace and Harmony
One of Friar Laurence’s primary desires is to see peace and harmony in Verona. He is deeply troubled by the feud between the Montagues and Capulets, and he believes that it is a major source of suffering for the city. He hopes that by helping Romeo and Juliet to marry, he can bring about a reconciliation between the two families and end the violence.
2. The Happiness of Romeo and Juliet
Friar Laurence also cares deeply for Romeo and Juliet. He has known them since they were children, and he has seen their love for each other grow. He believes that they are a perfect match for each other, and he wants to see them happy. He is willing to do whatever it takes to help them achieve their happiness, even if it means breaking the law or going against the wishes of their parents.
3. The Preservation of the Natural Order
Friar Laurence is a man of faith. He believes that there is a natural order to the universe, and that human beings should not try to interfere with it. He believes that Romeo and Juliet’s love is a part of this natural order, and that it is his duty to help them overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.
| Desire | Motivation | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Peace and harmony | To end the feud between the Montagues and Capulets | Helps Romeo and Juliet to marry |
| The happiness of Romeo and Juliet | To see them united and content | Provides them with a secret marriage, gives them advice |
| The preservation of the natural order | To maintain the balance of the universe | Believes that Romeo and Juliet’s love is ordained by fate |
Question 1:
What is Friar Laurence’s primary goal in Romeo and Juliet?
Answer:
Friar Laurence desires to reconcile the feuding families of Montague and Capulet and restore peace to Verona.
Question 2:
How does Friar Laurence’s desire relate to his actions in the play?
Answer:
Friar Laurence’s desire motivates him to secretly marry Romeo and Juliet in the hope that their union will bridge the divide between their families.
Question 3:
What are the potential consequences of Friar Laurence’s desire for peace?
Answer:
Friar Laurence’s desire for peace could lead to unintended consequences, such as the discovery of Romeo and Juliet’s secret marriage, further escalating the conflict between the Montagues and Capulets.
Well, there you have it! Friar Laurence, the wise old counselor of Romeo and Juliet, was a complex character with many desires, both good and bad. We may not always agree with his choices, but we can certainly learn from his mistakes. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit again later for more thought-provoking content!