In Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," the concepts of fate and free will are intertwined, creating a complex and thought-provoking exploration of how much control individuals have over their lives. Fate is often portrayed as a predetermined outcome that cannot be changed, while free will is the ability to make choices and take actions that can influence the outcome of events. In the Elizabethan era in which the play was written, many people believed in the power of fate and the influence of the stars and Greek gods on individuals' lives but also held the belief that individuals could make choices and shape their destinies. The play explores the theme of fate and free will through the ill-fated love story of Romeo and Juliet, two young lovers from feuding families who are drawn together despite their …show more content…
This essay will examine the role of fate and free will in "Romeo and Juliet" and explore how it reflects the beliefs and context of the Elizabethan era.
The prologue of Romeo and Juliet serves as an introduction to the theme of fate, which plays a significant role in the tragic events that unfold throughout the play. The prologue is written in the form of a sonnet, which is a literary technique that emphasizes the themes of love and fate. By using this form, Shakespeare can convey the idea that the story of Romeo and Juliet is a classic tale of doomed love. It sets the stage for the audience by giving them a brief overview of the story, highlighting the main characters and the conflict between their families. The prologue also establishes the theme of fate by introducing the idea that disastrous events of the play are predetermined. The opening lines, "From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean," suggest that the feud between the Montague and Capulet families has been ongoing for a long