It is a common belief that people's lives are dependent on fate. There is an ultimate destination at the end of a journey that is predetermined by something greater than our own desires. Unfortunately, this illusion is easily shattered by the fact that the world is not a utopia abundant with universal happiness. People that rely on fate soon find themselves making regrettable decisions and failing to see the significance of their actions. People who learn to take control of their lives are able to more effectively survive the several injustices faced throughout life. Over the years, writers have been able to depict that fact that the conclusion of one's life is a reflection of how he or she chooses to live it. A vivid example of this concept is presented through Pip, the main character in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and through Romeo, the tragic hero in one of William Shakespeare's most well known plays, Romeo and Juliet. The character of Pip undergoes a life-altering journey that results in his growth as a character and redemption as an individual. Likewise, Romeo participates in various incidents that cannot be blamed on fate, but rather are a result of his own actions that inevitably lead to his downfall. Although their preliminary intentions were different, it is Romeo and Pip's similarities of their actions, naive understandings of the world and the control that women have over their lives that led up to their ultimate outcome.
             In the beginning of Great Expectations Pip is presented as an immature, yet positive character. As a child, Pip had a frightening interaction with a convict while mourning for his family at the Old Battery. The convict demanded food and a file from a young boy, little above his poverty level. Pip brought the convict the items he had asked for among with other useful possessions. Pip is a profound character that while naive makes adult decisions. By stealing from his family...