When Romeo and Juliet decide to get married, they turn to Friar Lawrence for assistance. Friar Lawrence is initially hesitant due to the intense rivalry between the Montague and Capulet families, to which Romeo and Juliet belong. However, he eventually agrees to marry them in the hope that their union will bring an end to the long-standing feud between the two families.
The marriage ceremony takes place in Friar Lawrence's cell at a local monastery. The witnesses to the marriage are:
1. Friar Lawrence himself: As the officiant of the ceremony, Friar Lawrence serves as the primary witness to the marriage between Romeo and Juliet. He conducts the ceremony, exchanges vows, and declares them lawfully wed.
2. The Nurse: Juliet's trusted confidant and caretaker, the Nurse is present during the marriage ceremony as a witness. She is aware of Romeo and Juliet's love and supports their union, even though she has reservations about the potential consequences of their hasty decision.
3. Balthasar: Romeo's loyal and devoted servant, Balthasar is also present at the ceremony as a witness. He is entrusted with delivering messages between Romeo and Juliet and is aware of their secret plans.
After the ceremony, Friar Lawrence instructs romeo and Juliet to keep their marriage a secret, knowing that public revelation could lead to further conflict and danger. However, their happiness is short-lived as a series of tragic events unfold, leading to their untimely deaths and the eventual resolution of the feud between their families.