In Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," just before Juliet takes her own life, Friar Laurence advises her to be strong and to take a potion that will make her appear dead for 42 hours, allowing her to escape an unwanted marriage to Paris and to be reunited with Romeo.
In Act 4, Scene 1, the Friar provides Juliet with a plan to avoid marrying Paris. He tells her:
“Take thou this vial; being then in bed,
And this distilled liquor drink thou off;
When presently through all thy veins shall run
A cold and drowsy humor, for no pulse
Shall keep his native progress, but surcease.
No warmth, no breath, shall testify thou livest.”
This passage shows the Friar's attempt to give Juliet an option, presenting it as a means to avoid her predicament. He believes she should be strong and have faith in his plan. However, it's important to note that, despite his advice, the plan ultimately leads to a tragic misunderstanding and Juliet's despair, culminating in her decision to take her own life. This moment highlights the dire consequences of the events set in motion by the actions of those around her, including the Friar's advice.