Romeo is one of our two protagonists in the play. At times, he directly acknowledges the power that ‘fate’ has over him. During other points in the play, Romeo demonstrates an inability to control his emotions and this means he acts rashly. We can argue that because he is an impulsive character, Shakespeare is showing us that another power, like fate, directs his life + decisions.

• Protagonists – Leading character or one of the major characters.
• Inability – The state of being unable to do something (in this context, unable to control emotions)
• Rashly – Acting without much consideration.
• Impulsive – Acting without much forethought.

Three Quotations that show us Romeo believes ‘fate’ is in control of his actions.

I fear, too early, for my mind misgives
Some consequence yet hanging in the stars
Shall bitterly begin his fearful date
With this night’s revels, and expire the term
Of a despisèd life closed in my breast
By some vile forfeit of untimely death.

1:4

O, I am fortune’s fool!

3:1

Is it e’en so?—Then I defy you, stars!—

5:1

In Romeo and Juliet, the idea of fate and having a path already set for you is vivid.