Romeo & Juliet Lesson 18: Friar Lawrence - PowerPoint

In this lesson, students delve into the character of Friar Lawrence from Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet." The objectives are twofold: firstly, to develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of Friar Lawrence's role and characteristics; and secondly, to analyse Shakespeare's use of language in crafting the friar's persona. Students are encouraged to form initial impressions of Friar Lawrence, using descriptive words and phrases to articulate their thoughts. This sets the stage for a more in-depth exploration of the character and his significance in the play.

As part of the lesson, students examine a speech delivered by Friar Lawrence in Act 2, Scene 3, where he enters with a basket, contemplating the duality of nature and the fine line between good and evil. The friar's language is rich with imagery and opposites, such as the "grey-eyed morn" smiling on the "frowning night," and the description of the earth as both "nature's mother" and her "tomb." Students are tasked with highlighting these opposites and discussing their purpose, as well as identifying foreshadowing elements within the text that hint at later events in the play. Through this analysis, they gain insight into Friar Lawrence's philosophical views and the play's overarching themes of duality and fate.