Reprehensible Sins

How is it possible that a religious figure can ever be insensitive when they are supposed to be considerate and help others through hardships? Hence, it is not possible. Therefore, Friar Lawrence does not display the qualities of a priest due to his selfishness. An example of his selfishness is when he says, “She wakes, and I entreated her come forth” “And bear this work of heaven with patience.” “But then a noise did scare me from the tomb,” “And she, too desperate, would not go with me” “But, as it seems, did violence on herself.” (Shakespeare Act V, Scene iii, 269-273) These false words show that Friar Lawrence is selfish because he does not desire to speak the truth. He declares that he tried to persuade Juliet to calm down. However, the truth exposed shows that after Juliet realizes Romeo is dead, Friar Lawrence actually runs away. He only says what it said to escape from being in trouble. This proves Friar Lawrence cares more about his own safety then of Juliet’s, which shows that he is selfish and inconsiderate. A virtuous priest is considerate of others, and Friar Lawrence is definitely uncharitable.

Many people have broken the law one time or another, but to have a religious authority break the law is terribly injustice. It is one thing to break minor laws such as drinking while driving, and another to poison someone without permission. Friar Lawrence has violated the law of giving Juliet poison to prevent marriage to Paris. Proof of this is when he said, “Take thou this vial, being then in bed,” “And this distilling liquor drink thou off;” “When presently through all thy veins shall run” “A cold and drowsy humor; for no pulse” “Shall keep his native progress, but surcease.” “No warmth, no [breath] shall testify thou livest.” (Shakespeare Act IV, Scene I, 95-100) This excerpt shows how Friar Lawrence has agreed to give Juliet a vile. By giving a child a vile is an extreme violation of the law and to have a religious authority such as the priest do it, is tremendously immoral. Juliet, being only a young teen, who is oblivious to what she is doing, threatens the friar to help her. Though Friar Lawrence knows it is illegal, nonetheless, he gives Juliet the poison. This shows he not only is violating strict laws, but is thoughtless of the things that could happen to Juliet.  

All in all, a religious authority is intended to set positive examples for others. They are meant to be benevolent, obliging, and respect rules and feelings of the individuals who look up to them. These are the things that make them a holy icon. However, Friar Lawrence does not demonstrate the characteristics that are admired in a religious figure. He is insolent, selfish, and infringes rules. No priest, minister, or rabbi would do the horrid actions that Friar Lawrence has done. Not only does he violates the admirable characteristics of a religious authority, but also causes the death of the two star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. It is unacceptable and because of his poor actions, he should be penalized. Friar Lawrence has conducted unforgivable sins and does not deserve his holy title.