Act II – Scene.ii

Summary

This scene takes place in Friar Laurence’s cell. He is proficient in the art of using herbs etc., having knowledge of the properties of the plants that he collects. 

Romeo enters, advising the Friar of his new love for Juliet, and his intention to marry her.  The Friar is amazed at Romeo’s sudden change in affection from Rosaline to Juliet. He suggests that Romeo is fickle, but Romeo is insistent that his love is true and tells the Friar that Juliet returns his love.  The Friar eventually agrees to marry the couple, and he expresses the hope that this might end the feud between the families.

Interpretation

The Friar comments on the frailties of youth, being amazed at Romeo’s change of allegiance from Rosaline to Juliet.  Romeo’s response is that Rosaline did not return his love, in contrast to Juliet who fully reciprocates.  The Friar makes the comment of how good may be perverted to evil and evil may be purified by good.  He puts his theories to use by agreeing to marry Romeo and Juliet.  He hopes that the good of their love will reverse the evil between the two noble houses.