Romeo and Juliet, one of the most famous plays written by William Shakespeare, has been a popular topic of discussion for centuries. While many argue that the tragic ending of the play was predetermined by destiny, a closer look reveals that it was personal choice and not fate that led to the lovers' downfall. The play is set in Verona, Italy, and tells the story of two young lovers from feuding families, the Montagues and Capulets. Despite their families' long-standing feud, Romeo and Juliet fall deeply in love and vow to be together forever. The play explores themes of love, hate, fate, and tragedy. In Romeo and Juliet, it was the personal choices of the characters that caused the tragic ending and not destiny. One example of how personal …show more content…
If they had revealed their relationship and sought help from their families, the tragic ending could have been avoided. Another example of personal choice leading to the tragic ending is the choice of Romeo to kill Tybalt, Juliet's cousin. Romeo's decision to kill Tybalt led to his banishment, which in turn created a rift between him and Juliet. If Romeo had made a different choice and not killed Tybalt, he and Juliet may have been able to find a way to be together. While some may argue that fate played a significant role in the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet, the reality is that it was the personal choices of the characters that ultimately led to their demise. Some may argue that the lovers were doomed from the beginning due to their families' feud, as evidenced by the prologue, which states that they are "star-crossed." However, this statement only means that the lovers are destined to face obstacles, not that they are fated to die tragically. The choice of Friar Laurence to help Romeo and Juliet get married in secret.Friar Laurence agreed to help Romeo and Juliet get married in secret, despite the potential consequences. If he had not agreed to help them, the tragic ending may have been