Personal Responsibility vs. fate

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Have you wondered if your life is chosen by fate or if it is your own fault? There are two possible answers to this question; it states the obvious that to our own minds we do not believe in fate, as there is not enough proof to prove the existence of fate. In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” the tragic ending in the play can conclude to this question. Throughout the play the reader must choose to either believe it is the stars or heavens that lead them to their deathbed or if it was their own personal choice. Shakespeare uses the element of foreshadowing to help build suspense, but does he also use it to prove the myth of fate? There is a lot of reference to the stars and their foretelling powers as well as references to religion and heaven. Prince’s speech at the end of the play contributes to the theory of the heavens killing Romeo and Juliet as a punishment for the “Ancient Grudge” between the families. “ See what a scourge is laid upon your hate, that heaven finds means to kill your joys wit love!” The Prince thinks that the death of the two families heirs is a punishment from the heavens (gods) for their disturbance in Verona, he also thinks that the sad and tragic suicides bring not only mourning but also peace. The Heavens are included in religion and the fact that Friar Lawrence plays a major role in the play and become Juliet and Romeos closest Trustee. The references to Astrology used in the play, proves the fate involved with the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. In Elizabethan times stars had a way of predicting the future. “A pair of Star-crossed lover…” this is an example of the stars anticipating the tragic future. “Star-Crossed” in this case means the stars have created a path of fate that the couple must follow. Juliet and Romeo also speak about the stars and also envision their death. Juliet and Romeo as well as Friar Lawrence all believe
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