Romeo and Juliet - Fate

FATE (f t) n. 1. a. The supposed force, principle, or power that predetermines events. b. The inevitable events predestined by this force. 2. A final result or consequence; an outcome. 3. Unfavorable destiny; doom

(New Heritage American Dictionary).

Fate is a force that knows neither age nor opposition. Some call it luck while others call it chance; either way, fate gets the last word. William Shakespeare recognized this timeless force in arguably his most timeless play. Throughout The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare demonstrates the strong role of fate, especially in Romeo and Juliet’s meeting, troubled relationship, and tragic death.

Early in the first lines of the prologue, Shakespeare sets the scene for tragedy:

Two households, both alike in dignity,

In fair Verona, where we lay our scene,

From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,

Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.

From forth the fatal loins of these two foes

A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life;(Shakespeare, 1)

He openly admits to the audience the disastrous conclusion of the upcoming play. In doing so, Shakespeare blames the tragic outcome

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The Friar plans for Juliet to take a potion that makes her appear lifeless for forty-two hours, during which time she will be placed in the family tomb. Tybalt, a devoted Capulet, announced after first learning of Romeo’s presence: “This, by his voice, should be a Montague. Shakespeare made sure to incorporate his personal belief that things happen for a purpose, and that fate is the ultimate judge of how things turn out. He felt true love when he first laid eyes upon Juliet Capulet.

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Incapable of living without her love, Juliet returns to Friar Laurence for advice. Romeo met Juliet by chance, then went on to encounter the belligerent Tybalt by chance.

Fate- good luck, bad luck, and chance- plays a central role in the lives of human beings.

So Romeo would, were he not Romeo called,

Retain that dear perfection which he owes.

All goes according to plan, until fate makes another appearance. This sparks Romeo’s interest in attending the feast.

The idea of the feud between the households coming to an end was Shakespeare’s own. Fetch me my rapier, boy” (Shakespeare 38). on the stars, or in other words, on fate. As the audience carries on the journey with the two feuding families, Shakespeare’s belief in fate is reinforced time and time again.

Approximate Word count = 1432
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)

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