Act III – Scene.iii

Summary

Romeo hides in Friar Laurence’s cell overcome with grief. The Friar tells him he is lucky to have only been banished by the Prince, but Romeo states that this is worse than death as he has been sentenced to live, but without Juliet.  He falls to the floor threatening to kill himself, but the Friar scolds him for being effeminate.

The Friar states than once matters have calmed down, the Prince may change his mind, and then he puts his plan into action.

Romeo should visit Juliet that night in order to consummate the marriage and then depart in the morning to Mantua.

The nurse enters and gives Romeo the ring from Juliet, and this symbol revives Romeo’s spirits.

Interpretation

The passionate Romeo reacts with drama concerning his exile. Although he seems to act immaturely in comparison to Juliet’s reaction to the news, she is now mature and loyal to Romeo.  In contrast, Romeo acts childishly, threatening to kill himself. It is the Friar’s wise counsel that calms him and he is further comforted when he receives the ring from Juliet.

Shakespeare puts into the heads of the audience the seed that suicide is a logical response when the fates are against you.