Romeo And Juliet Free Will Essay

693 Words3 Pages

People often wonder what rules the lives of people, is it free will or is it fate? Well based on the play, the Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet depicts the tragedy of their forbidden yet destined love ending up in a mess due to the long feud between the two households. In this situation, according to the author/scriptwriter, William Shakespeare views that fate is what rules the lives of people. To begin with, in Shakespeare’s opinion illustrated through Romeo and Juliet’s story, fate in the points of astrology plays as a commander and evidence that fate is what rules their story. For example, in the prologue of Romeo and Juliet, states, “A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life.” This shows foreshadowing which is connected to destiny in what’s …show more content…

For instance, in Act 3 scene 1 it states this oxymoron, “O, I am Fortune's fool!” The oxymoron "Fortune's fool" in Romeo and Juliet highlights the idea that fate can be cruel and unpredictable. The character who speaks these words, Romeo, recognizes that he has been a victim of circumstances beyond his control, and that his own choices have led him to his tragic fate. The use of dramatic irony further emphasizes the role of fate in the play, as the audience is aware of the events that will happen while the characters remain oblivious. Through Romeo's realization that he is at the mercy of fate, Shakespeare conveys the message that our actions have consequences that people cannot always predict or avoid. In essence, Romeo's statement captures the tragic irony of the play, and serves as a reminder that, ultimately, people’s lives are shaped by a combination of luck and …show more content…

This quote is from Act 5 scene 1 and it states, “Then I defy you, stars!” The quote "Then I defy you, stars!" in Romeo and Juliet explains the concept that individuals can rebel against fate and take control of their lives, even if it means defying the cosmic forces that govern their existence. This statement made by Romeo, who believes that Juliet is dead, shows that he is willing to challenge the predetermined path set out for him and to fight against the forces that intrigue to keep him apart from his true love. However, despite his tries, fate ultimately lets him down, and Romeo and Juliet's tragic fate is sealed. Shakespeare's use of dramatic irony once again emphasizes the idea that human beings are often powerless to change their fate, and that even when they attempt to go against it, they are ultimately subject to its