1. In a minimum of 100 words/maximum of 125 words, provide a critical analysis that disagrees with the following observation: ‘Many critics of Romeo and Juliet have insisted upon the view that this play is a tragedy of fate and that the beautiful lovers of Verona are overwhelmed entirely by tragic forces moving outside of and about them.’ (Cain, 1974: 163). Your answer should provide clear evidence from the text that supports your stance that Romeo and Juliet are not blameless victims.
It is misguided to view Romeo and Juliet as entirely blameless victims of fate. While external forces such as the feud between their families certainly contribute to their tragic ending, it is ultimately the decisions and actions of the young lovers themselves that lead to their demise. Romeo's impulsive behavior, including his decision to kill Tybalt and his hasty marriage to Juliet, sets in motion a chain of events that lead to their ultimate downfall. Likewise, Juliet's willingness to deceive her family and fake her own death also contributes to the tragedy. Furthermore, the play repeatedly emphasizes the role of free will and personal responsibility, with characters such as Friar Lawrence and the Nurse pointing out the potential consequences of the lovers' actions. To reduce the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet to a matter of fate overlooks the complex and nuanced portrayal of the characters and their decisions in the play.
Despite the prevailing interpretation that Romeo and Juliet are mere victims of fate, there is ample evidence in the text to suggest otherwise. While external forces certainly play a role in the lovers' tragic demise, their own choices and actions contribute significantly to their fate. From the very beginning, Romeo's impulsive nature and tendency to make rash decisions are evident. He quickly forgets his infatuation with Rosaline and transfers his affections to Juliet without truly knowing her. Moreover, in Act 3, Romeo's actions directly lead to the deaths of Tybalt and Mercutio, which sets off a chain of tragic events. Juliet, on the other hand, displays a lack of agency in her relationship with Romeo. Rather than assert herself and communicate openly with her family, she submits to Romeo's every whim. Her decision to take the Friar's potion without considering the consequences only further highlights her active participation in her own tragedy. While fate undeniably plays a part, it is clear that Romeo and Juliet are not blameless victims but rather active participants in their own downfall.
Word count: 174 words