Would Romeo and Juliet play be as effective without the constant reference to re

Question:Religion plays a large role in this play, both with the plot and references within the text. Sometimes, religion is shown as something positive; other times, religion is what holds a character back from having free will.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Religion plays a large role in this play, both with the plot and references within the text. Sometimes, religion is shown as something positive; other times, religion is what holds a character back from having free will.

I have been in this play, seen this play, and read this play in English class multiple times. I think that Religion does play an integral role in the plot, and that even the minor refrences made to "shrift" are important.

First, Religion is the one thing that the two families share. That's why Friar Lawrence is willing to marry the two lovers, that's why he wants the feud to end. It's important to provide a neutral character who favors neither one side nor the other. Given the time and the place in which the play is set, the Church is the the logical answer for institution which could provide such a character.

Secondly, the Chruch's vast network of contacts throughout Italy is also essential to the play. It is because Friar Lawrence is a Franciscan Friar that he can provide a place for Romeo to stay in Mantua until it is safe to return to Verona. Because of his connections with the Church, Friar Lawrence is able to send a letter to Romeo with another member of his order (although, as we all know, sadly, that letter never reaches its intended recipient). Lastly, Friar Lawrence enjoys free access to the crypt in which Juliet lies. Notice that while Paris, as Juliet's intended husband, does not hide his visits to the vault, Romeo and Balthasar have to break in. Clearly, the Capulet Monument is not open to the public

Finally, Religion emphasizes the fact that these two households are "Both alike in dignity". These are not two bands of lawless criminals. They're upper-class, well-respected families without a scratch to their reputations save the feud. The constant refrences to Religion emphasize that point. That these two families are both loyal churchgoers would have been of vital importance in that time and place. That is why, I think, that we hear members of both families discussing attending shrift, or confession. Of course, anyone raised in such an environment would be sure to allude to religion in everyday conversation.

In conclusion, no, I do not think that R & J would be nearly as effective without the constant refrences to religion

When I watched Romeo and Juliette, I never noticed a reference to religion. I simply enjoyed the whole story of the lost lovers.You must have seen something in it that I didn't.