Why did Friar Laurence agree to marry Romeo and Juliet in secret?

Remembering that their families - Motague and Capulet - were feuding, Friar Laurence agreed to marry the two teenagers in the hope that the families would make amends on the account that the youngest of their houses had seen past their differences. However, the Friar does not publicise the fact that the two are married, for fear of blame and contempt, and so the marriage is kept a secret until the two lovers die. Some argue that Romeo and Juliet would both have survived had Friar Laurence agreed to marry them, but not kept their marriage a secret.

SB
Answered by Sophie B. English tutor

30559 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the different skills required to succeed in GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature?


Explore how Shakespeare presents Portia as a strong female character in 'The Merchant of Venice'


How should I approach and analyse an unseen poem?


Explore how 'The Prelude' and 'Exposure' depict the power of nature.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning