Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is one of the most famous love stories of all time. The two title characters are star-crossed lovers who never get their happy ending. Look closely at the line, “Some consequence, yet hanging in the stars.” You realize Romeo’s biggest fear is that there is nothing he can do to change his destiny.
Indeed, one doesn’t have to dig too deep to find the answer to the question, “What is Romeo’s fear?” Shakespeare makes it clear in Act One: Scene 4 what Romeo is afraid of with the line about consequence.
What Does the Line “Some Consequence, Yet Hanging in the Stars” Mean?
When Romeo says the line that includes, “Some consequence, yet hanging in the stars,” it serves as foreshadowing for the events to come. In other words, Romeo feels that something is about to happen.
The next words in the line are, “Shall bitterly begin.” Therefore, Romeo reveals that not only does he feel like something is about to happen, but he recognizes that it isn’t good. He knows in his heart that things aren’t going to work out in his favor.
Referencing the stars shows that Romeo believes in fate. Consequently, he strongly believes that his destiny is predetermined. The young suitor is afraid because he knows from the start that things aren’t going to go well.
What Kind of Fear Is the Poet Talking About?
When focusing on Romeo’s biggest fear regarding the line about fate, Shakespeare highlights the fear of helplessness. There’s a fear in knowing you have no control over the outcome of your life, even if you do have some control over your choices.
Romeo believes that no matter what choices he makes, ultimately, he is doomed, and things won’t turn out happily in the end. However, this doesn’t stop him from pursuing his affections for Juliet. Of course, you could also attribute this to fate. Even though Romeo knows things aren’t going to end well, he persists anyway.
This persistence could be partly due to his love for Juliet, but you could also argue that it’s meant to be; it’s his fate. The ball has already been set in motion, so even though Romeo knows the outcome is going to be bad, he can’t stop. There is nothing he can do. He is helpless.
Romeo Knows That His Fate Is Sealed
Romeo’s sin of killing Tybalt starts a chain reaction of events that lead to the unfolding tragedy of the play. Furthermore, even Romeo’s kiss with Juliet at the Capulet party can be seen as a symbolic sin. Not only is it a symbol for stealing Juliet’s innocence, but it also adds another link in the chain of tragic events.
Romeo sees his fate written in the stars, yet he still pursues actions that contribute to his demise. It’s his destiny, and although he senses dread, he is powerless to stop it. Romeo is afraid because he believes that no matter how strong the love is between him and Juliet, it cannot conquer fate.
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