In the myth of Romeo and Juliet, fate plays a critical role, driving the tragic outcome of the story. The concept of "star-crossed lovers" implies that the characters’ destinies are influenced by forces beyond their control. Throughout the play, various events and misunderstandings reinforce the idea of predetermined outcomes, culminating in the untimely deaths of the protagonists. Shakespeare underscores how fate intertwines with personal choice and the consequences of familial conflict, highlighting the tension between free will and destiny.