Fate

In this play fate plays a different role than in tragedies. In tragedies fate is normally the villain and does anything to prevent our protagonist from happiness. But in comedies they are more of an ally helping the protagonist achieve happiness. This is due mainly to the genre of the plays. In tragedies the characters are not supposed to attain happiness but instead are left to suffer or die. In the “Barber of Seville”, fate plays the role of an ally. First, when Figaro, the barber of Seville is miraculously at Seville, because he had just happened to give up his previous occupation so that he can be a poet. The fact that he is in debt to the Count of Almaviva is another proof that fate is helping the protagonist, Count Almaviva. Figaro helping his old master, is one thing but the fact that he is in a perfect position to help his master is another. Fate is a supporter of Count Almaviva and fate displays his support by sending him Figaro right when he needs him. Another example of fate playing the role of a supporter is how at the end of the play, everything works out perfectly for Count Almaviva. In the last act, Bartolo has tricked Rosina into believing that the Count has sent some lackey to seduce her. She refuses to marry the Count after she finds out and even tells Bartolo their plans for escape. But, Bartolo leaves and the Count walks in and then as if it was never there the conflict is resolved. Then, if that wasn’t enough the notary walks in to the room right after the confusion between Rosina and the Count. Then the notary marries the Count and Rosina, and they most likely live happily ever after. But, with the help of fate who wouldn’t have a happy ending.

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