The word ‘fatal’ in the prologue of Romeo and Juliet carries a dual significance that enhances the overall meaning of the play. On one level, it denotes the idea of death or lethal consequences, which aligns with the tragic nature of the story. Shakespeare hints at the doomed fate of the ‘star-crossed lovers,’ foreshadowing the inevitable loss that will unfold throughout the narrative.
On another level, ‘fatal’ also refers to the idea of fate itself – the forces that seem to control the lives of Romeo and Juliet, guiding them toward their tragic end. This interpretation emphasizes the theme of destiny that permeates the play, suggesting that their love, while beautiful, is ultimately governed by a malevolent fate that leads to their demise.
Thus, the dual meaning of ‘fatal’ encapsulates both the literal threat of death that looms over the characters and the larger, more abstract concept of fate that drives their story, deepening the tragedy of their love and highlighting the overarching themes of the play.