Romeo and Juliet didn't have a choice… or DID they?

In the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, by William Shakespeare, choice plays a big part in the dramatic ending. Even though some of the reasons for Romeo and Juliet's deaths are out of their control, I believe that fate, or chance, is not the biggest reason for their deaths. Making choices brings consequences. There is no over-seeing factor that controls these consequences; and while much of the focus of the story is put on fate, what really plays the biggest part in the story, are the poor decisions by Romeo and Juliet.

There are several instances where Romeo could have made choices that would have changed the outcome of the story. "I fear, too early. For my mind misgives some consequences, yet hanging in the stars, Shall bitterly begun this fearful date with this night reveals and expire the term of a despised life, close in my breast, by some vile forfeit of untimely death" (I. iv. 113). This shows that Romeo knows that there could be consequences for his actions. Romeo is also aware that his family and Juliet's family hate each other. Yet he still goes to Capulet's party, fully knowing what could happen as a result. "Then plainly know my heart's dear love is set on the fair daughter of rich Capulet. As mine on hers, so hers on mine". (II. iii. 61). Even when Romeo realizes that Juliet is a Capulet, he pursues after her. Romeo should have known that both their families would STRONGLY disapprove of them being together, and would prevent them from seeing each other. It would have been just as easy for Romeo to head home instead of going to see her. Instead, he chooses to go to her balcony where he meets Juliet....