The Idea of Fate and Free Will in Shakespeare’s Tragedies: A Comparison between Classical and Renaissance Perspectives

Abstract

This research explores the a very historic, ever debated, highly intricate and dynamic question, that how fate and free will go hand in hand with each other, but ultimately, who remains dominant, in Shakespearian tragedies. This articles covers, Hamlet, Macbeth, and King Lear the unparalleled tragedies written by William Shakespeare. Here in the study we will analyze how artfully characters drawn out of Shakespeare pen deal with conflict and crisis which are outcome of their predetermined destiny, fate and their inner voice and choice. The study suggests that Shakespeare's characters and specifically his tragic heroes represent the clash and in opposition of external forces, and internal decision-making, which ultimately shape their own destinies through their choices. In all the earlier mentioned plays prophecy, omens, predictions and cosmic disorder seems as dominant and guiding force and power which has taken human lives, in control and shapes the human life and result of their efforts, struggle and skirmish, which soothes unseen and heavenly powers. But as the story unfolds, the protagonist's tragic and devastating fate and end appear to be largely the result of his own decisions, desires, and moral weaknesses. Through this confrontation, it becomes clear that Shakespeare's profound insight into human suffering and misery cannot be understood solely in terms of fate, but must also be seen in the context of human will and decision-making. His tragedies do not simply present a scene of resignation to fate, but they reveal a complex conflict between inevitable forces and personal decisions that shape the life of the individual.

Keywords: Fate, Free Will, Shakespeare’s Tragedies, Classical, Renaissance Perspectives