Romeo and Juliet's fate was in his hands alone. No one else knew of their secret love, and how it was about to be torn apart. He was the most knowledgeable, trustworthy, and admirable individual in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.  Who was this man? Friar Lawrence. He is obviously the most important character in the play (besides Romeo and Juliet of course). He married the two lovers, gave them advice, and devised the plan that would lead to their demise. Without him, the story of Romeo and Juliet would be far different.

One of the main reasons that the Friar is one of the most important characters in the play is that he is the advisor of both Romeo and Juliet. He fills the essential role of talking common sense into the two love struck youngsters. Had it not been for this good man, the lovers would...