Fate in Romeo and Juliet

The main theme of fate, in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, is shown throughout the play within subtle comments made by characters, the imagery in the stars, and different writing styles. The prologue describes Romeo's fate, as well as Juliet's, which appears many times later in the play. Throughout the play, Romeo and Juliet unwillingly realize their love has no chance in their current situation of war and hate. A tragic fate awaits them. The …

…and hate; fighting and peace are mentioned early to foreshadow fate (Northrap 32). All the events that happen in the play lead to one major event, in which fate plays a large, dire role. The destined lovers realize their love cannot be pure and simple, and no matter what the attempt, it will be tragic. The two families, whose strife can only be stopped by the predetermined love of their offspring, seize the hatred between them.