Fate and free will Flashcards
Fate and free will quote 1
‘From forth the fatal loins of these two A pair of star-cross’d lovers take their life
This theme resonates throughout the play, underscoring the fragility of human plans in the face of cosmic forces. ‘Star-cross’d” suggesting that Romeo and Juliet’s destiny is written in the stars, a reference to astrology indicating that their fate and the outcome of this play is inevitable and beyond human control
Fate and free will quote 2
O I am fortune’s fool Act 3
Romeo’s line “O, I am fortune’s fool!” shows how he feels powerless against fate, believing that his life is controlled by bad luck and destiny. It highlights the theme of fate in the play, as Romeo sees himself as a victim of cruel circumstances, reinforcing the idea that tragedy is inevitable some may see this as a means for Romeo to blame fate for the killing of Tybalt and the conflict he has created.
Fate and free will quote 3
Act 4 The line, “shall Romeo by my letters know our drift,”
highlights how the success of the plan—and ultimately the fate of Romeo and Juliet—relies entirely on the delivery of a single letter. Shakespeare uses this to show how something seemingly trivial can have fatal consequences. The recurring motif of letters in the play, such as the invitation that led Romeo to the Capulet party, reinforces this idea. Just as one letter began their love, another, undelivered, leads to their deaths—emphasising the cyclical and tragic nature of their relationship, shaped by miscommunication and fate.
Fate and free will quote 4
“Then I defy you, stars” Act 5 - Romeo directly addresses the stars, personifies them as tangible forces capable of replying to him emphasising his deteriorating mental state
Fate and free will 5
Act 5 “A greater power than we can contradict”
