# Scene III explained — Romeo and Juliet

> Chapter companion for Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Friar Laurence reflects on the dual nature of herbs and humanity, then is visited by Romeo, who reveals he has forgotten Rosaline and now loves Juliet, daughter of his family's enemy. Romeo asks Friar Laurence to marry them, and the Friar agrees, hoping the union will reconcile the Montagues and Capulets.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Impulse

Romeo's swift shift from Rosaline to Juliet illustrates impulsive youthful love.

### Duality and Oxymoron

Friar Laurence's speech on the dual nature of herbs and humanity introduces the theme of opposing forces coexisting.

## Character check-ins

### Friar Laurence

Contemplates the duality of nature and agrees to marry Romeo and Juliet.

### Romeo

Confesses his love for Juliet and asks Friar Laurence to perform the marriage.

## Key lines

> The grey-eyed morn smiles on the frowning night, Chequering the eastern clouds with streaks of light

The dawn light breaks through the dark night sky.

_Friar Laurence describes the sunrise._

> Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied; And vice sometimes by action dignified.

Good things can become bad when used wrongly, and bad things can become good through proper action.

_Friar Laurence reflects on the dual nature of things._

> I have forgot that name, and that name’s woe.

I have forgotten Rosaline and the sorrow she caused me.

_Romeo tells Friar Laurence he no longer loves Rosaline._

> Then plainly know my heart’s dear love is set On the fair daughter of rich Capulet

I am now in love with Juliet, the daughter of the wealthy Capulet.

_Romeo confesses his love for Juliet._

> For this alliance may so happy prove, To turn your households’ rancour to pure love.

This marriage might be fortunate enough to end the feud between your families.

_Friar Laurence hopes the marriage will reconcile the Montagues and Capulets._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se/chapters/act-ii-scene-iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/romeo_and_juliet_se/chapters