Final answer:
Friar Laurence is the character in Act 5 of Shakespeare's play who explains to the Prince and the grieving families the events that led to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Act 5 of William Shakespeare's play, it is Friar Laurence who elucidates to the Prince and the grieving families what has transpired. After the tragic death of both Romeo and Juliet, the Friar reveals the secret marriage of the two lovers and the events that led to their demise. His account helps to resolve the misunderstandings between the feuding families and brings the story to its sorrowful conclusion.