In Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, Friar Lawrence says this line in Act 3, Scene 3, after Romeo has just threatened to upon hearing his sentence of banishment. Friar Lawrence means that in moments of intense emotion or madness, people are too consumed by their own thoughts and feelings to listen to reason or think rationally. Romeo's extreme despair has blinded him to the potential consequences of his actions and prevents him from hearing the friar's advice or considering alternative solutions. Thus, Friar Lawrence laments that madmen, or individuals in a state of emotional turmoil, are unable to listen or comprehend rational advice.
When Friar Lawrence says, "O, then I see that madmen have no ears," he is expressing his realization that irrational or mad individuals are unable to listen or comprehend reason. This statement highlights the frustration and futility the Friar feels when attempting to communicate with someone who is not capable of understanding his wisdom and advice. Essentially, Friar Lawrence is suggesting that individuals who are acting irrationally are unable to hear, understand, or appreciate rational thoughts and guidance.
