How does the outcome of the play relate to Friar Laurence’s earlier observations (in Act II, Scene 3) about nature? Cite from Act II to support your response.
Answer:
In Act II, Scene 3, Friar Laurence observes that nature contains both good and evil, and that nothing is entirely good or entirely evil, but rather, everything contains elements of both. He says, “Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied, / And vice sometime’s by action dignified” (II.iii.17-18). The outcome of the play supports this observation, as the love between Romeo and Juliet, which should be a good thing, ultimately leads to their tragic deaths. Despite their good intentions, their actions result in unforeseen consequences. This reflects Friar Laurence’s earlier observation about the potential for good to turn to evil when misapplied.