A Preordained Tale

A brief insight regarding the strong influence of fate in the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet…

Sheel Shah
Ms. Maynard
May 15th, 2014 Fate is a powerful force, responsible for the inevitable events that occur in one’s life – to some extent, this statement is definitely true. In the 16th century play, Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare, this theme is highlighted upon, drawing attention to the lifestyle and beliefs of the individuals living during the time; this gives the audience an opportunity to reflect upon the influence of fate in the modern society and connect this theme to their personal life. More specifically, fate plays a crucial role in highlighting that no one has the capability to stop the tragic destiny faced by the two lovers; this concept is emphasized through the passionate love shown by Romeo and Juliet, the unexpected circumstances encountered, and the delusional views experienced by the fated lovers. In the town of Verona, where the novel is set, two opposing families – the Capulets and the Montagues, avoid interaction between one another; yet, the meeting and instantaneous love showcased by their teenage children clearly demonstrates fate in the novel. The Chorus introduces the audience to this concept when describing Romeo and Juliet as “star-cross’d lovers… [with] death-mark’d love…”, which proposes the lack of one’s control in his/her own life. Romeo and Juliet were unable to anticipate death from their treasured love; instead, it was density that caused the miscommunication leading to the catastrophe (Prologue.6-9). Furthermore, fate is witnessed when an illiterate Capulet servant, Peter, approaches Romeo in particular, out of all individuals in Verona, and inquires, “Good gi’ good e’en / I pray, sir, can you read?” – Essentially, this obliges Romeo to read the invitation list for the Capulet party (1.2.63-65). This gives Romeo the opportunity to attend the Capulet feast, where he later meets his soul mate, Juliet; fate brought the Capulet servant to Romeo for help, which led to the forbidden meeting of the two adolescents, demonstrating how these individuals were destined to be together. Fate is a principal theme existent within the adversity faced by Romeo and Juliet, which continues from the meeting of the lovers through the unexpected circumstances that characterize the work. Romeo and his father-figure Friar Lawrence, both perceive negative implications as a result of unexpected circumstances that directly influence the outcome of the story. To start, as a result of the servant’s unforeseen plea, Romeo’s close friends persuade him to join in the intrusion of the Capulet feast; Romeo does carry doubts, however, professing, “I fear too early, for my mind misgives / Some consequence yet hanging in the stars” (1.4.113-114). Evidently, the audience comes to know that Romeo’s death is predetermined by fate, and although he foresees consequences resulting from the intrusion, it is fate which compels him to attend regardless. Likewise, when Friar Lawrence is informed that Friar John was quarantined for visiting a house with victims suffering from the plague, his reaction is austere: FRIAR LAWRENCE Who bare my letter, then, to Romeo? FRIAR JOHN I could not send it (here it is again) Nor get a messenger to bring it thee So fearful were they of infection FRIAR LAWRENCE Unhappy fortune! ... (5.3.14-17)

As this inauspicious circumstance is observed, the audience realizes that it is more than a mere coincidence; rather, it is the downfall of the Friar’s plan, and the interference of the plague – an event stipulated by fate – to ensure the revelation contained in the letter does not reach Romeo. The unexpected events which were destined to occur set the foundation of the tragic love story; however, their implications on Romeo and Juliet make the audience aware that nothing can be done to help the two lovers succeed in their battle to be together. As