Fate and freewill

Question 1

thesis

Answer 1

In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare presents fate not as an external force, but as the consequence of the characters’ failure to recognize their own flaws and moderate their impulsive actions. Romeo and Juliet’s tragic fate is self-inflicted, brought about by the inability of all the characters to consider the consequences of their decisions.

Question 2

essay plan

Answer 2

At the start of the play, Shakespeare uses the Prologue to introduce fate as a shaping force, while subtly blaming societal conflict and human flaw for the tragedy to come.

As the play continues, Shakespeare uses Romeo’s impulsive vengeance to critique the tendency to blame fate instead of recognising human flaws.

Towards the end of the play, Shakespeare uses the lovers’ suicides to emphasise that their fate is a direct result of impulsive decisions and emotional extremity rather than supernatural control.

Question 3

quote 1 and 2

Answer 3

star-cross’d lovers

fatal loins

Question 4

quote 3 and 4

Answer 4

bred of an airy word

O calm, dishonourable, vile submission

Question 5

quote 5 and 6

Answer 5

A plague o’ both your houses!

I am fortune’s fool

Question 6

quote 7 and 8

Answer 6

I defy you, stars!

Here’s to my love

Question 7

quote 9

Answer 7

O happy dagger, this is thy sheath