essay definition of fate

Lit. Summaries

  • Biographies

The Power of Destiny: A Summary of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s ‘Fate’

  • Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate” explores the concept of destiny and its power over human life. In this article, we will provide a summary of Emerson’s ideas on fate and how it influences our lives. Through his philosophical musings, Emerson encourages readers to embrace the power of destiny and use it to their advantage.

The Power of Destiny: A Summary of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s ‘Fate’

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate” explores the concept of destiny and its role in shaping human lives. According to Emerson, fate is not a predetermined path that individuals must follow, but rather a force that individuals can harness to achieve their goals. He argues that individuals have the power to shape their own destiny through their thoughts and actions. However, he also acknowledges that there are external forces beyond our control that can influence our lives. Ultimately, Emerson encourages individuals to embrace their fate and use it as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

Emerson’s Definition of Fate

Emerson’s definition of fate is a complex and nuanced one. He argues that fate is not simply a predetermined outcome that we have no control over. Instead, he suggests that fate is a force that we can work with and shape to our advantage. According to Emerson, fate is a combination of our own actions and the larger forces of the universe. We are not simply passive recipients of fate, but active participants in shaping our own destiny. This idea is both empowering and challenging, as it requires us to take responsibility for our own lives and to work hard to achieve our goals. Ultimately, Emerson’s definition of fate is a call to action, urging us to take control of our lives and to strive for greatness.

The Role of Fate in Human Life

Fate has been a topic of discussion for centuries, with many people believing that it plays a significant role in human life. Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate” explores this idea, arguing that fate is not something that controls us, but rather something that we can use to our advantage. According to Emerson, fate is not a force that we must submit to, but rather a power that we can harness to achieve our goals. He believes that we have the ability to shape our own destiny, and that we should not be afraid to take risks and pursue our dreams. While fate may play a role in our lives, it is ultimately up to us to determine our own path and create our own future.

Fate and Free Will

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the concept of fate and free will. He argues that while fate may seem to control our lives, we still have the power to shape our own destiny through our choices and actions. Emerson believes that we should not be passive in the face of fate, but rather take an active role in shaping our lives. He writes, “Fate is nothing but the deeds committed in a prior state of existence.” This suggests that our past actions and choices have a direct impact on our present and future. Ultimately, Emerson encourages us to embrace our free will and use it to create the life we desire.

The Importance of Self-Reliance

Self-reliance is a crucial aspect of achieving one’s destiny, as emphasized by Ralph Waldo Emerson in his essay “Fate.” According to Emerson, relying on external factors such as society, tradition, or even luck can hinder an individual’s growth and potential. Instead, he advocates for individuals to trust their own instincts and abilities, and to take responsibility for their own lives. By doing so, one can break free from the constraints of fate and create their own destiny. Emerson’s message of self-reliance is a timeless reminder that we have the power to shape our own lives, and that our success ultimately depends on our own actions and choices.

The Influence of Society on Fate

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate” explores the idea that society has a significant influence on an individual’s fate. He argues that society’s expectations and norms can limit a person’s potential and steer them towards a predetermined path. Emerson believes that individuals should break free from societal constraints and follow their own path to achieve true success and fulfillment. He writes, “The eye is the first circle; the horizon which it forms is the second; and throughout nature this primary figure is repeated without end.The world is emblematic. Parts of speech are metaphors because the whole of nature is a metaphor of the human mind.” In other words, society’s expectations are just a metaphor for what individuals can achieve if they break free from them. Emerson’s essay encourages readers to question the influence of society on their fate and to strive for individuality and self-determination.

Fate and the Law of Compensation

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the concept of destiny and its relationship to the law of compensation. According to Emerson, fate is not a predetermined path that we must follow, but rather a force that we can shape through our own actions and choices. He argues that the law of compensation ensures that we are always rewarded or punished for our deeds, whether in this life or the next. This means that we have the power to create our own destiny by making wise choices and living virtuously. However, Emerson also acknowledges that there are forces beyond our control that can influence our fate, such as the actions of others or natural disasters. Ultimately, he suggests that we should embrace the mystery of fate and trust in its wisdom, even when we cannot fully understand it.

The Relationship Between Fate and Providence

In Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate,” he explores the relationship between fate and providence. While fate is often seen as an uncontrollable force that determines the course of our lives, providence is the belief that a higher power is guiding us towards a greater purpose. Emerson argues that these two concepts are not mutually exclusive, but rather work together to shape our lives. He suggests that while we may not have control over the events that happen to us, we do have control over how we respond to them. By embracing providence and trusting in a higher power, we can find meaning and purpose in even the most difficult of circumstances. Ultimately, Emerson’s essay reminds us that while fate may be powerful, it is not all-encompassing, and that we have the ability to shape our own destinies through our actions and beliefs.

The Limitations of Human Understanding of Fate

Despite our best efforts, humans are limited in their understanding of fate. While we may try to predict and control our future, there are always unforeseen circumstances that can alter our path. Ralph Waldo Emerson argues that fate is a force beyond our comprehension, and that we must accept its power and influence in our lives. He suggests that we should not try to resist or manipulate fate, but rather embrace it and trust that it will lead us to our ultimate destiny. However, this acceptance of fate does not mean that we should be passive or resigned to our circumstances. Instead, we should strive to make the most of our opportunities and use our free will to shape our lives in a positive direction. Ultimately, the limitations of human understanding of fate remind us of the importance of humility and acceptance in the face of the unknown.

Fate and the Concept of Unity

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the concept of unity and its relationship to destiny. He argues that everything in the universe is interconnected and that our individual fates are ultimately tied to the fate of the whole. This idea of unity is central to Emerson’s philosophy, and he believes that it is through recognizing our interconnectedness that we can come to understand the power of destiny. By accepting our place in the larger scheme of things, we can find peace and purpose in our lives, even in the face of adversity. Ultimately, Emerson suggests that fate is not something to be feared or resisted, but rather something to be embraced as a natural part of the universe’s unfolding.

The Connection Between Fate and Nature

In Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate,” he explores the connection between fate and nature. He argues that nature is a manifestation of fate and that everything in the natural world is predetermined. Emerson believes that humans are also subject to this predetermined fate and that our actions are simply a result of the forces of nature acting upon us. He suggests that we should embrace this idea of fate and accept our place in the natural world, rather than trying to resist it. By doing so, we can find peace and fulfillment in our lives. Emerson’s ideas about the connection between fate and nature are thought-provoking and offer a unique perspective on the role of humans in the world.

The Idea of Predestination in Emerson’s ‘Fate’

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the idea of predestination and its role in shaping human lives. He argues that while some may believe in a predetermined fate, it is ultimately up to the individual to shape their own destiny through their actions and choices. Emerson suggests that the concept of predestination can be limiting and can prevent individuals from taking responsibility for their own lives. He encourages readers to embrace their own agency and to strive towards their own goals, rather than resigning themselves to a predetermined fate. Through his exploration of predestination, Emerson challenges readers to consider the power of their own choices and the impact they can have on their lives.

The Role of Intuition in Understanding Fate

Intuition plays a crucial role in understanding fate, according to Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate.” He argues that intuition is a higher form of knowledge that allows us to see beyond the limitations of our senses and reason. Intuition allows us to tap into the universal mind and understand the interconnectedness of all things. This understanding of fate is not fatalistic, but rather empowering, as it allows us to see that we have a role to play in shaping our destiny. By trusting our intuition and following our inner guidance, we can align ourselves with the forces of fate and fulfill our highest potential.

The Paradoxes of Fate

The Paradoxes of Fate are a central theme in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate.” Emerson argues that fate is both a force that controls our lives and a power that we can harness to achieve our goals. He suggests that we must accept the inevitability of fate while also striving to shape our own destiny. This paradoxical nature of fate is both empowering and daunting, as it forces us to confront the limits of our own agency and the vastness of the universe’s power. Ultimately, Emerson’s essay challenges us to embrace the paradoxes of fate and to find meaning and purpose in the midst of life’s uncertainties.

The Relationship Between Fate and the Individual

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the relationship between fate and the individual. He argues that while fate may seem to control our lives, it is ultimately up to the individual to shape their own destiny. Emerson believes that we have the power to choose our own path in life, and that our actions and decisions can ultimately determine our fate. However, he also acknowledges that there are certain external factors that can influence our lives, such as societal norms and cultural expectations. Despite these external pressures, Emerson encourages individuals to take control of their own lives and to not be afraid to forge their own path. Ultimately, he believes that it is through our own actions and choices that we can shape our destiny and fulfill our potential.

Fate and the Search for Meaning in Life

In his essay “Fate,” Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the concept of destiny and its role in shaping our lives. He argues that fate is not something that is predetermined or fixed, but rather something that we create through our own actions and choices. According to Emerson, we are not passive recipients of fate, but active participants in its creation.

Emerson also suggests that the search for meaning in life is closely tied to our understanding of fate. He writes, “The search after the great men is the dream of youth and the most serious occupation of manhood.” In other words, our quest for purpose and significance is often driven by our desire to understand our place in the grand scheme of things.

However, Emerson cautions against becoming too preoccupied with the idea of fate. He warns that “the belief in a fate overpowers us, in a manner as our own personality.” In other words, if we become too fixated on the idea that our lives are predetermined, we may lose sight of our own agency and ability to shape our destiny.

Ultimately, Emerson’s essay encourages us to embrace the power of destiny while also recognizing our own role in shaping it. By doing so, we can find meaning and purpose in our lives while also remaining grounded in the present moment.

The Relevance of Emerson’s ‘Fate’ Today

In today’s world, where we are constantly bombarded with news of natural disasters, political upheavals, and economic crises, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. However, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Fate” reminds us that we are not mere pawns in the hands of fate, but active participants in shaping our own destiny. Emerson argues that we have the power to transcend our circumstances and create our own reality through our thoughts and actions. This message is particularly relevant today, as we face unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. By embracing the power of our own agency, we can find hope and inspiration in the face of adversity and chart a course towards a brighter future.

The Role of Fate in 'Romeo and Juliet'

Were the star-cross'd lovers doomed from the start?

  • Shakespeare's Life and World
  • Best Sellers
  • Classic Literature
  • Plays & Drama
  • Short Stories
  • Children's Books
  • M.A., Theater Studies, Warwick University
  • B.A., Drama and English, DeMontfort University

There's no real consensus among Shakespearean scholars about the role of fate in "Romeo and Juliet." Were the "star-cross'd lovers" doomed from the start, their tragic futures determined before they even met? Or are the events of this famed play a matter of bad luck and missed chances?

Let's take a look at the role of fate and destiny in the story of the two teenagers from Verona whose feuding families couldn't keep them apart.

Examples of Fate in 'Romeo and Juliet'

The story of Romeo and Juliet asks the question, "Are our lives and destinies preordained?" While it is possible to see the play as a series of coincidences, bad luck, and bad decisions, many scholars see the story as an unfolding of events predetermined by fate. 

For example, in the opening lines of "Romeo and Juliet," Shakespeare allows the audience to hear his characters’ destiny. We learn early on what is going to happen to the title characters: “a pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life.” As a result, the idea of a preordained ending is already on the audience's mind as the story plays out.

Then, in Act One, Scene Three, Romeo is already feeling that fate is planning his doom before the Capulet's party. He wonders if he should attend the party, as "my mind misgives / Some consequence yet hanging in the stars."  

In Act Three, Scene One, when Mercutio shouts “a plague on both your houses," he's foreshadowing what's to come for the title couple. This bloody scene in which characters are killed gives us a glimpse of what's to come, marking the beginning of Romeo and Juliet’s tragic downfall.

When Mercutio dies, Romeo himself foreshadows the outcome: "This day's black fate on more days doth depend / This but begins the woe, others must end." The others upon whom fate later falls, of course, are Romeo and Juliet.

In Act Five, when he hears of Juliet's death, Romeo swears he will defy fate: "Is it even so? Then I defy you, stars!" Later, as he plans his own death in Juliet's tomb, Romeo says: "O, here / Will I set up my everlasting rest, / And shake the yoke of inauspicious stars / From this world-wearied flesh." This brave defiance of fate is especially heartbreaking because Romeo's suicide is the event that leads to Juliet's death.

The idea of fate permeates through many of the events and speeches in the play. Romeo and Juliet see omens throughout, continually reminding the audience that the outcome will not be a happy one.

Their deaths are also a catalyst for change in Verona, as the dueling families become united in their mutual grief and create a political shift in the city. Perhaps Romeo and Juliet were  fated to love —and die—for the greater good of Verona.

Were Romeo and Juliet Victims of Circumstance?

Other readers may examine the play through the lens of happenstance and coincidence, and thus conclude that Romeo and Juliet's fates were not wholly predetermined but rather a series of unfortunate and unlucky events.

For instance, Romeo and Benvolio happen to meet and talk about love on the very day of the Capulets' ball. Had they had the conversation the following day, Romeo would not have met Juliet.

In Act Five, we learn that Friar Lawrence's messenger to Romeo, who would have explained the plan of Juliet's pretend death, is detained, and Romeo doesn't get the message. If the messenger had not tried to find someone to accompany him on the trip, he would not have been held back.

Finally, Juliet wakes just moments after Romeo's suicide. Had Romeo arrived just a few moments later, all would have been well.

It is certainly possible to describe the events of the play as a series of unfortunate events and coincidences. That said, it is a much more rewarding reading experience to consider the role of fate in "Romeo and Juliet."

  • Romeo: Shakespeare's Famous Doomed Lover
  • Key 'Romeo and Juliet' Quotes
  • A Complete List of Shakespeare’s Plays
  • The House of Capulet in Romeo and Juliet
  • The House of Montague in 'Romeo and Juliet'
  • Romeo and Juliet From 'Beautiful Stories From Shakespeare'
  • 'Romeo and Juliet' Scenes
  • Members of the Montague-Capulet Feud in 'Romeo and Juliet'
  • Love in 'Romeo and Juliet'
  • Academic Speculation on the Year Shakespeare Wrote ‘Romeo and Juliet’
  • The Supporting Cast of 'Romeo and Juliet'
  • Romeo's Monologues From "Romeo and Juliet
  • What Is Drama? Literary Definition and Examples
  • Juliet's Monologues From Shakespeare's Tragedy
  • The Best Shakespeare Plays for High School
  • Must-Read Books If You Like Romeo and Juliet
  • More from M-W
  • To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of fate

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of fate  (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

  • circumstance
  • predetermine

fate , destiny , lot , portion , doom mean a predetermined state or end.

fate implies an inevitable and usually an adverse outcome.

destiny implies something foreordained and often suggests a great or noble course or end.

lot and portion imply a distribution by fate or destiny, lot suggesting blind chance

, portion implying the apportioning of good and evil.

doom distinctly implies a grim or calamitous fate.

Examples of fate in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Noun and Verb

Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin fatum , literally, what has been spoken, from neuter of fatus , past participle of fari to speak — more at ban entry 1

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1601, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fate

  • a fate worse than death
  • freak of fate
  • her fate was sealed
  • meet one's fate
  • seal someone's fate

Dictionary Entries Near fate

fat dormouse

Cite this Entry

“Fate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fate. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of fate.

Kids Definition of fate  (Entry 2 of 2)

Medical Definition

Medical definition of fate, more from merriam-webster on fate.

Nglish: Translation of fate for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of fate for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fate

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Play Quordle: Guess all four words in a limited number of tries.  Each of your guesses must be a real 5-letter word.

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day, obstreperous.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More commonly misspelled words, commonly misspelled words, how to use em dashes (—), en dashes (–) , and hyphens (-), absent letters that are heard anyway, how to use accents and diacritical marks, popular in wordplay, pilfer: how to play and win, the words of the week - may 24, flower etymologies for your spring garden, 9 superb owl words, 10 words for lesser-known games and sports, games & quizzes.

Play Blossom: Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.

essay definition of fate

The Odyssey

Ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Fate, the Gods, and Free Will Theme Icon

Three somewhat distinct forces shape the lives of men and women in The Odyssey : fate, the interventions of the gods, and the actions of the men and women themselves. Fate is the force of death in the midst of life, the destination each man or woman will ultimately reach. Though the gods seem all-powerful, "not even the gods/ can defend a man, not even one they love, that day/ when fate takes hold and lays him out at last."

While fate determines the ultimate destination, the nature of the journey toward that fate—whether it will be difficult or easy, full of shame or glory—depends on the actions of gods and men. Sometimes a god works against a particular man or group of men that have in some way earned that god's anger, as when Poseidon blocks Odysseus 's attempts to return home to punish him for blinding Poseidon's son Polyphemus . In such instances, the destructive actions of the gods tend to affect men like natural disasters: they alter men's lives but do not curtail men's freedom to act as they choose amidst the rubble.

Sometimes a god works to help a man or group that the god favors, as when Athena disguises Odysseus on his return from Ithaca; but in these cases the line between human free will and divine intervention can get quite blurry. Athena helps Telemachus to take action by giving him courage: but does she affect him like a steroid that artificially augments his strength, or like a wise friend that helps him to more fully grasp his own inherent abilities? Whether the gods manipulate human actions or inspire humans to follow their own free will is never entirely clear.

Fate, the Gods, and Free Will ThemeTracker

The Odyssey PDF

Fate, the Gods, and Free Will Quotes in The Odyssey

Ah how shameless – the way these mortals blame the gods. From us alone, they say, come all their miseries, yes, but they themselves, with their own reckless ways, compound their pains beyond their proper share.

Piety, Customs, and Justice Theme Icon

You should be ashamed yourselves, mortified in the face of neighbors living round about! Fear the gods' wrath – before they wheel in outrage and make these crimes recoil on your heads.

essay definition of fate

Some of the words you'll find within yourself, the rest some power will inspire you to say. You least of all – I know – were born and reared without the gods' good will.

Outrageous! Look how the gods have changed their minds about Odysseus – while I was off with my Ethiopians. Just look at him there, nearing Phaeacia's shores where he's fated to escape his noose of pain that's held him until now. Still my hopes ride high – I'll give that man his swamping fill of trouble!

Three, four times blessed, my friends-in-arms who died on the plains of Troy those years ago, serving the sons of Atreus to the end. Would to god I'd died there too and met my fate that day …. A hero's funeral then, my glory spread by comrades – now what a wretched death I'm doomed to die!

The gods don't hand out all their gifts at once, not build and brains and flowing speech to all. One man may fail to impress us with his looks but a god can crown his words with beauty, charm, and men look on with delight when he speaks out. Never faltering, filled with winning self-control, he shines forth at assembly grounds and people gaze at him like a god when he walks through the streets. Another man may look like a deathless one on high but there's not a bit of grace to crown his words.

Cunning, Disguise, and Self-Restraint Theme Icon

Since we've chanced on you, we're at your knees in hopes of a warm welcome, even a guest-gift, the sort that hosts give strangers. That's the custom. Respect the gods, my friend. We're suppliants – at your mercy! Zeus of the Strangers guards all guests and suppliants: strangers are sacred – Zeus will avenge their rights!

Even so, you and your crew may still reach home, suffering all the way, if you only have the power to curb their wild desire and curb your own.

So stubborn! … Hell-bent again yet again on battle and feats of arms? Can't you bow to the deathless gods themselves? Scylla's no mortal, she's an immortal devastation.

No fear of the gods who rule the skies up there, no fear that men's revenge might arrive someday – now all your necks are in the noose – your doom is sealed!

Now that royal Odysseus has taken his revenge, let both sides seal their pacts that he shall reign for life, and let us purge their memories of the bloody slaughter of their brothers and their sons. Let them be friends, devoted as in the old days. Let peace and wealth come cresting through the land.

Memory and Grief Theme Icon

Skip to Content

Classical Wisdom Weekly

Fate and Free Will – The Stoic Perspective

by Programmer on September 8, 2021

essay definition of fate

  • If it is fated that you will survive a snakebite, then you will survive whether you go to a hospital or not.
  • Likewise, if you are fated to not survive a snakebite, then you will not survive whether you go to a hospital or not.
  • One of them is fated.
  • On either alternative, it does not matter what you do because the fated outcome will happen anyway.

Posted in Philosophy , Stoicism - One comment

Tags: Chrysippus , Cicero , fate , free will , Lazy Argument , Stoicism

« Previous post

Next Post »

One comment

' data-class=

“In other words, nothing is up to you, except the way you react to it. A very Stoic thought!”

This seems to be begging the original question, i.e., is it really up to you in the sense that you have a real choice, or is it just up to you in the sense that how you have been fated/caused to be constituted determines how you react? I can’t decide.

  • On Fate: Grimnismal and Amor Fati – Between Two Ravens: A Norse Mythology Podcast

Our apologies, you must be logged in to post a comment.

Ancient Wisdom for Young Minds!

Sappho Children's book

Most Popular Posts

  • Top Ten: Most Terrifying Monsters Of Greek Mythology
  • Plato and the Disaster of Democracy
  • The Cult Of Pythagoras
  • The 5 Most Powerful Creatures From Mythology
  • Five Reasons Why Socrates Was A Terrible Husband
  • Prometheus The Creation of Man and a History of Enlightenment
  • The Tumultuous Tale of Heracles and Hera
  • The Myth of Daedalus and Icarus
  • 12 Ancient Greek Terms that Should Totally Make a Comeback

The Titans of Greek Mythology

Greek Gods

  • Ancient Greek books
  • Architecture
  • Mathematicians
  • Military History
  • Oedipus Trilogy
  • Philosophers
  • Pre-Socratics
  • Socrates-Plato
  • Uncategorized
  • Unusual Greek Myths

Ancient Wonders Reconstructed

A sport for fanatics.

Chariot Racing

HELL or UTOPIA? Plato’s Republic

Republic's Utopia

Beware the Ides of March!

Julius Caesar

Bust of Caesar

The Land of Demons

The Land of Demons

Book of the Week

BC-Aristotle-Ethics

  • Archaeology
  • Entertainment
  • Environment
  • Information Science and Technology
  • Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Literature Macbeth

The Definition Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth

*minimum deadline

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below

writer logo

  • All The Pretty Horses
  • Langston Hughes
  • Sherman Alexie
  • Because I could not stop for Death

Related Essays

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Literary English

The Role of Fate in Oedipus the King

 The Role of Fate in Oedipus the King | Greek Tragedy

The role of fate in oedipus the king.

In this article, we will learn about the role of fate in Oedipus the King. We will also discuss the definition of fate and general beliefs under the term fate and how Greeks were adhere to fate and their beliefs on fate.

There is no rigid line to blame fate or character responsible for an action or doom of a human being. The people, over centuries, have put forward their opinions but all assumptions are vague.

In Ancient Era, there was a rigid belief that fate is the only divine force which drives men to do a course of action in their life. According to their beliefs, fate influences and shapes human life. In Modern Ere, the concept of fate changed in the minds of people and they believe on individuals’ action responsible for making fate. 

What is fate?

Fate is the will of the God/gods (supreme religious authority according to religion of individuals) which influence and shapes destiny of a human life. According to Greeks, fate of a human is shaped by divine forces that are uncontrollable. If a man performs an action, it is not done by him but fate forced him to do that. But modern people do not believe on fate solely. They believe that individuals are equally responsible for what they do.

Role of fate in Greek Tragedies

Greek tragedies were based on theocentric vision and mostly they carried religious themes where destiny was controlled by divine powers and it was impossible for a protagonist to escape from fate. In Greek tragedies, fall of character is due to destiny that plays a role in the play. Ancient Greek tragedies were written by Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus and they were modeled upon religious groundings .

Role of Fate in Oedipus the King

Oedipus the King is a tragedy based on fate like all other Greek tragedies where divine powers are unassailable and they control the destiny of a character. Indeed, this voice of the gods delivered by oracles —the expression of their divine force—represents a dominant, invisible force throughout the Oedipus Trilogy. Yet this powerful control of fate brings a question from the drama itself. If every action is determined ahead of time, and no human effort to escape can change the course of life. Critics have different opinions regarding the pre-planned trap where a man was put who has no power to go against pre-planned trap by fate.

The main plot of the Oedipus trilogy was based on fate. The chorus gives it more strength in his odes and songs begging from their gods and glorifying their divine powers that determines destiny of Oedipus. Role of fate is vivid in the play because of the number of prophesies and beliefs of people regarding oracles in the play.

Initially, King Laius tries to avoid fate when he abandoned his child but fate played his role and his attempt failed and Oedipus was given with another life and brought up by King Polybus. Secondly, when Oedipus become to know that he will kill his father and marry his mother he escaped to avoid fate but again here fate played his role and brought him at that point where fate want to make his use. Thirdly, When Sphinx was prevailing in Thebes and Oedipus solved his riddle; the solution of riddle paved his way to his doom by fate. Now he has committed both sin: killing and marriage, for these prophesy was made on bases of his fate. In all above context, Oedipus was helpless and like a puppet in the hands of divine powers. Oedipus and his father both tried to avoid fate, but they became the prey of fate according to Sophocles and entirely Greek tragedy patterns.

Role of Character in Shaping Fate in Oedipus the King

Like Shakespearean tragedies, where hamartia play a role for downfall of a protagonist; Sophocles play, Oedipus the king also has some instinct of hamartia in the play. Fate is not solely responsible for the tragic ending of the play but Oedipus himself was responsible equally. Modern critics blame Oedipus’ character for his doom. Although his rashness is flaw in his character that cause the murder of Laius.

When Oedipus was told with a prophesy that he will kill his father, He should keep himself away from killing any man but he killed one. Here it is characters role in his tragedy. His rashness and swift decision making made him a killer. We observed that many times he threatens people including Tiresias, Creon, and shepherd to kill or banish. His hamartia paved his way towards a tragic end. Secondly, when he was told with a prophesy that he will marry to his mother, why he married to a queen of more than his age. Why he did not choose a girl younger than him to marry. Apart than his rashness these two mistakes were also done by his character. So that’s why character is also responsible for the tragedy.  

  • Daily Crossword
  • Word Puzzle
  • Word Finder
  • Word of the Day
  • Synonym of the Day
  • Word of the Year
  • Language stories
  • All featured
  • Gender and sexuality
  • All pop culture
  • Writing hub
  • Grammar essentials
  • Commonly confused
  • All writing tips
  • Pop culture
  • Writing tips

Advertisement

It is always his fate to be left behind.

Synonyms: luck , chance , kismet , karma

Fate decreed that they would never meet again.

Death is our ineluctable fate.

The oracle pronounced their fate.

  • death, destruction, or ruin.
  • the Fates, Classical Mythology. the three goddesses of destiny, known to the Greeks as the Moerae and to the Romans as the Parcae.

verb (used with object)

a person who was fated to be the savior of the country.

Synonyms: preordain , foreordain

  • the ultimate agency that predetermines the course of events
  • the inevitable fortune that befalls a person or thing; destiny
  • the end or final result
  • a calamitous or unfavourable outcome or result; death, destruction, or downfall

he was fated to lose the game

Discover More

Word history and origins.

Origin of fate 1

Idioms and Phrases

  • seal one's fate

Synonym Study

Example sentences.

In the near-term, that path forward will depend largely on the fate of the next wave of fiscal relief and covid-19 vaccine developments.

The State Department has expressed concern over the fate of two brothers from Chechnya who were arrested in Russia and returned to their homeland from which they fled.

So it seems Cuban’s attempt to stop playing the anthem will meet the same fate as others that came before it.

This wasn’t the first time my father had come across a timberdoodle that met its fate by flying into an NYC skyscraper.

Kansas City would add just one more field goal in the third quarter, sealing their fate in a 31-9 loss, the 11th-highest point differential in Super Bowl history.

Sybil is dead, as is Matthew; Gregson is missing with dark hints about his fate.

If we want to prevent others from your fate, we need to stop being so passive on these issues.

The fate of AirAsia Flight 8501 and the 162 souls on board is a tragedy, but it will not remain a mystery for much longer.

Yet, much like the fate that fell the first season, ratings just plain weren't good.

So how concerned should people be about the fate of the VSV vaccine?

It seemed to free her of a responsibility which she had blindly assumed and for which Fate had not fitted her.

Terror drives you on; fate coerces you; you can't help yourself, and my delight is to make the plunge terrible.

She was a grown young woman when she was overtaken by what she supposed to be the climax of her fate.

Noble ambition—worthy of a less ignoble cause—a better fate!

He has a packet in his possession, that will inform Louis de Montemar of the fate of his father.

Related Words

  • circumstance
  • consequence

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

Home — Essay Samples — Philosophy — Free Will — Fate Vs Free Will In Macbeth

test_template

Fate Vs Free Will in Macbeth

  • Categories: Free Will Tragedy

About this sample

close

Words: 556 |

Published: Mar 5, 2024

Words: 556 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Image of Dr. Charlotte Jacobson

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

author

Dr Jacklynne

Verified writer

  • Expert in: Philosophy Literature

writer

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

5 pages / 2290 words

8 pages / 3658 words

3 pages / 1417 words

3 pages / 1443 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Free Will

Soft determinism is a concept that delves into the intricate relationship between free will and determinism, offering a nuanced perspective that acknowledges the presence of external influences while still emphasizing individual [...]

Free will has been a subject of philosophical and scientific debate for centuries. Despite our belief in free will, scientific evidence suggests that our choices are predetermined by various factors, ultimately challenging the [...]

Cunning, David, editor. The Cambridge Companion to Descartes’ Meditations. Cambridge University Press, 2014.Gregory, Andrew. “Leucippus and Democritus on Like to Like and Ou Mallon.” Apeiron, vol. 46, no. 4, 2013, pp. [...]

In conclusion, Slaughterhouse-Five offers a complex and nuanced analysis of free will. Through its unique narrative structure and thought-provoking characters, the novel challenges traditional notions of agency and determinism. [...]

Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five has been the subject of much attention and debate since its release. Its wide range of topics such as critique of the American government and discussion of existentialism have made it an [...]

Free will, is it an illusion or not? This is probably one of the most famous arguments in Philosophy. It is a historical argument where each philosopher has his or her own views. Many philosophers’ opinions are divided when it [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

essay definition of fate

Cambridge Dictionary

  • Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of fate in English

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

  • But for a cruel twist of fate, he could now be running his own business .
  • He showed a stoic resignation toward his fate.
  • It is somehow fixed in my mind that my fate and that woman's are intertwined .
  • By an odd quirk of fate, we ended up on the same train .
  • The fates of both countries seem somehow entwined .
  • all roads lead to Rome idiom
  • automatically
  • be (only) a matter of time idiom
  • be damned if you do and damned if you don't idiom
  • be nothing for it idiom
  • be part and parcel of something idiom
  • inalienable
  • inalienably
  • ineluctable
  • ineluctably
  • inescapable
  • it can't be helped idiom
  • relentlessly
  • relentlessness
  • remorseless
  • unstoppable
  • unstoppably

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

fate | Intermediate English

Examples of fate, collocations with fate.

These are words often used in combination with fate .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of fate

Get a quick, free translation!

{{randomImageQuizHook.quizId}}

Word of the Day

the highest point of a mountain

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

essay definition of fate

Learn more with +Plus

  • Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
  • Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
  • Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
  • Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
  • English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
  • English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
  • English–Dutch Dutch–English
  • English–French French–English
  • English–German German–English
  • English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
  • English–Italian Italian–English
  • English–Japanese Japanese–English
  • English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
  • English–Polish Polish–English
  • English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
  • English–Spanish Spanish–English
  • English–Swedish Swedish–English
  • Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
  • English    Noun
  • Intermediate    Noun
  • Collocations
  • Translations
  • All translations

To add fate to a word list please sign up or log in.

Add fate to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.

IMAGES

  1. The Role Of Fate In Oedipus The King

    essay definition of fate

  2. Fate in Literature Free Essay Example

    essay definition of fate

  3. Essay on Destiny or Fate 1000 Words

    essay definition of fate

  4. Fate Definition Print Poster

    essay definition of fate

  5. The Difference Between Fate and Coincidence Essay Example

    essay definition of fate

  6. ⇉The Role of Fate in Romeo and Juliet Essay Example

    essay definition of fate

VIDEO

  1. Essay Writing Tips on the Topic: Nature II #writingskills #essaywriting

  2. Essay||Definition/Types of essay/listing/ comparison and contrast/ cause and effect/for and against

  3. WHAT IS FATE?

  4. Fate/Accel Zero Order was dope

  5. Basics of English Essay Writing|CSS|PMS|Dilber Ali|#cssessay #cssenglishessay

  6. The TRUTH About Fate, Destiny, Life And Death (WARNING)

COMMENTS

  1. Fate Summary by Ralph Waldo Emerson

    Fate and the Concept of Unity. In his essay "Fate," Ralph Waldo Emerson explores the concept of unity and its relationship to destiny. He argues that everything in the universe is interconnected and that our individual fates are ultimately tied to the fate of the whole. This idea of unity is central to Emerson's philosophy, and he ...

  2. Fate Theme in Romeo and Juliet

    Fate ThemeTracker. The ThemeTracker below shows where, and to what degree, the theme of Fate appears in each scene of Romeo and Juliet. Click or tap on any chapter to read its Summary & Analysis. How often theme appears: scene length: Prologue. Act 1, Scene 1. Act 1, Scene 2. Act 1, Scene 3.

  3. The Role of Fate in 'Romeo and Juliet'

    This brave defiance of fate is especially heartbreaking because Romeo's suicide is the event that leads to Juliet's death. The idea of fate permeates through many of the events and speeches in the play. Romeo and Juliet see omens throughout, continually reminding the audience that the outcome will not be a happy one.

  4. What is the role of fate in Romeo and Juliet?

    Fate, or the belief that a power greater than man guides and controls the lives of men, plays a tremendous role in Romeo and Juliet, in fact, it is infused throughout the play, to the point that ...

  5. Critical Essays The Power of Fate in the Oedipus Trilogy

    Creon's last-minute attempt to conform to the gods' wishes only reveals to him his own inescapable fate — the destruction of his family and the end of his rule. Antigone herself is painfully aware of the power of Fate, attributing all the tragedy in her family to the will of Zeus. When she acts decisively, choosing to obey the laws of the ...

  6. Fate Essay

    Fate has sundry meanings. One of the meanings of fate: power that predetermines events. Destiny's definition suggests that events will occur and do not change. Whatever unravels in life cannot change by mankind. The statement has undivulged meanings; fate has the opportunity to change if the person wants events to end differently.

  7. Fate Definition & Meaning

    fate: [noun] the will or principle or determining cause by which things in general are believed to come to be as they are or events to happen as they do : destiny.

  8. Fate, the Gods, and Free Will Theme in The Odyssey

    Fate is the force of death in the midst of life, the destination each man or woman will ultimately reach. Though the gods seem all-powerful, "not even the gods/ can defend a man, not even one they love, that day/ when fate takes hold and lays him out at last." While fate determines the ultimate destination, the nature of the journey toward that ...

  9. The Mystery of Fate and Destiny: [Essay Example], 624 words

    Fate and destiny have long captivated human imagination, sparking debates about the interplay between free will and preordained outcomes. This essay delves into the philosophical concepts of fate and destiny, their cultural significance, the role of individual agency, and the ongoing discourse surrounding these intricate ideas.

  10. Fate and Free Will

    When it comes to fate and free will in Stoicism, a key debate exists beween what's referred to as the 'Lazy Argument' from critics of Stoicism, and the Stoic Response to the Lazy Argument developed by the Stoic philosopher Chrysippus.By examining this debate we can gain a better insight into the truth of the Stoic understanding of fate and freedom.

  11. Tragedy of Fate vs. Tragedy of Character

    Tragedy is a specific form that was made popular by the Greeks and given definition by the philosopher Aristotle. Both fate and character can contribute to the fall of the tragic hero, though some tragedies focus on one more than the other. Many examples of both tragedy of fate and tragedy of character are available from the ancient Greek era ...

  12. 'Explore the Theme of Fate Within Shakepeare's Romeo and Juliet'

    When awaiting the nurse, Juliet uses the beautifully romantic image of preserving Romeo when he dies, 'take him and cut him into little stars' (III.II) to better the heavens, a nod to the stars being seemingly amicable in the couples fate. However, this is fiercely juxtaposed by Romeo within Act 5, Scene Three after killing Paris in the ...

  13. The Definition Of Fate And Free Will In Macbeth

    Fate is a powerful source thought to control all events, like a person's destiny. If fate was real, then the outcome of a person's life would be inevitable. If fate was true, from the point right when you are born, your life would have already been planned out and you are helpless to change it.

  14. Destiny

    Destiny, sometimes also called fate (from Latin fatum 'decree, prediction, destiny, fate'), is a predetermined course of events. It may be conceived as a predetermined future, whether in general or of an individual. Fate Fate, by Alphonse Mucha. Although ...

  15. The Role of Fate in "Romeo & Juliet" by William Shakespeare: [Essay

    The essay explores the theme of fate in Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," emphasizing how both fate and human actions contribute to the tragic outcome of the star-crossed lovers. The analysis highlights that while Romeo and Juliet's love is strong, they are ultimately powerless against the forces of destiny and human errors.

  16. FATE

    FATE definition: 1. what happens to a particular person or thing, especially something final or negative, such as…. Learn more.

  17. The Role of Fate in Oedipus the King

    Role of Fate in Oedipus the King. Oedipus the King is a tragedy based on fate like all other Greek tragedies where divine powers are unassailable and they control the destiny of a character. Indeed, this voice of the gods delivered by oracles —the expression of their divine force—represents a dominant, invisible force throughout the Oedipus ...

  18. Fate and Destiny: Some Historical Distinctions between the Concepts

    Bollas (1989) notes that a. fatum is a prophecy and that a fatus is an oracle. This definition centers. on the fact that most knowledge of one's fate came through a verbal. statement or riddle ...

  19. FATE Definition & Meaning

    Fate definition: something that unavoidably befalls a person; fortune; lot. See examples of FATE used in a sentence.

  20. Definition Essay On Fate

    Fate, by definition, is the universal principle by which the order of things is seemingly prescribed. (Webster) Essentially, fate is events that are inevitable that we have no power to change. It is debatable that fate exists among everyone; however, humans are subject to making their own choices- free will.

  21. Fate Vs Free Will In Macbeth: [Essay Example], 556 words

    The debate of fate versus free will in William Shakespeare's play Macbeth is a thought-provoking theme that raises questions about human agency and destiny. The character of Macbeth exemplifies this ongoing struggle as he grapples with the choice to accept his fate or take control of his destiny. From the moment Macbeth hears the prophecies of ...

  22. FATE

    FATE meaning: 1. what happens to a particular person or thing, especially something final or negative, such as…. Learn more.

  23. Free Will vs. Fate in Dr. Faustus and Macbeth

    This essay sample was donated by a student to help the academic community. Papers provided by EduBirdie writers usually outdo students' samples. Cite this essay Download The definition of fate: is the development of events beyond a person's control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power. The definition of free will is: the power of ...