Across literature, the tragic hero whose qualities have been eclipsed by fatal flaws has been the center of downfalls and redemptions in stories. In examining this, we loop into the complexities of human nature, the interplay of destiny and fate, and the enduring effects of one's actions. Through the tragic hero's journey, we are confronted with the tragic downfalls and uplifting triumphs they face. In Romeo and Juliet, Romeo’s character is one who demonstrates the many tragedies and unfortunate events tragic heroes face. Through impulsive actions, fate and potential for vice and virtue, Romeo causes consequences for himself and others In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, The character of Romeo emphasizes a true Shakespearean tragic hero through …show more content…
Fate played a crucial role in bringing Romeo and Juliet together, starting with Romeo's fateful encounter with Juliet at the Capulet's party. This encounter was made possible by an illiterate servant's invitation, without which Romeo would have never met Juliet. Before attending the party, Romeo expresses his fearful feeling of fate:”I fear, too early, for my mind misgives / Some consequence, yet hanging in the stars / Shall bitterly begin his fearful date" (I, iiii, 112-114). This quote foreshadows the many tragic misfortunes both Romeo and Juliet face later in the play due to fate as they are now ill-fated. In addition, during the dispute between Mercutio and Tybalt, Romeo wasn’t given a choice but to step in and take revenge on Tybalt for his slain friend. Romeo then exclaims his realization that he is just a pawn to fate manipulated by fortune: “O, I am fortune’s fool! iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. iii. ii Romeo acknowledges how he is powerless and seems to have no control of what dire events occur. Finally, Romeo's role in fate takes control over his death. Juliet and Friar Laurence came up with a plan to fake Juliet’s death. Because of fate, the plan never got to Romeo. After receiving from Balthasar the supposed news of Juliet's death, Romeo states, “Then I defy you,stars!”(V,i,24). Here Romeo shows his defiance against fate. He expresses his desire to take control over his own life as fate is causing an abundance of misfortune. Due to Romeo defying fate, he becomes blinded and begins to act impulsively. Contributed by fate, it ends up killing both Romeo and Juliet. Romeo's tragic demise serves as an example of a tragic hero through fate guiding him towards many unfortunate