Friar Laurence Flashcards
Act 2 scene 6
“These violent delights have violent ends”
(Friar Laurence)
The phrase “violent delights” is an oxymoron, juxtaposing the idea of something pleasurable with something destructive, highlighting the dangerous nature of their love.
By using such a powerful and ominous line, Shakespeare creates a sense of tension and anticipation, as the audience knows that the lovers’ happiness is not sustainable.
Act 2 Scene 3
“Wisely and slow they stumble that run fast”
(Friar Laurence)
Metaphor, comparing hasty actions to physical tripping and falling, highlighting the potential for missteps when not taking time to plan.
Dramatic Irony.
Act 2 Scene 3
“To turn your households’ rancour to pure love”
(Friar Laurence)
“Rancour” - This word emphasizes the intense hatred and animosity that exists between the Montagues and Capulets.
“Pure love” - hopes that the love between Romeo and Juliet will be so strong that it will completely replace the existing hatred, bringing about a genuine change in the families’ attitudes.
Act 2 Scene 3
“Young men’s love then lies not truly in their hearts, but in their eyes”
(Friar Laurence)
By saying “in their eyes,” the Friar suggests that Romeo’s attraction to Juliet is primarily based on her physical appearance rather than her personality or deeper qualities.
Skepticism about Romeo’s love foreshadows the potential for conflict and disaster in their hasty relationship.
Act 5 scene 2
“Unhappy fortune!”
(Friar Laurence)
Expresses Friar Lawrence’s frustration that his crucial letter to Romeo was not delivered due to a messenger being stopped by a plague scare.
