Fate, however manipulated, ultimately triumphs – the end justified or unjustified by the means. Whether one sets out to challenge fate or reclines passively and welcomes it, fate proves inexorable. In comedy, those who feel strongly about preserving or modifying fate go to immeasurable lengths to ensure the desired outcome. Believing his fate lies in marrying Rosine, Bartholo, the antagonist of Beaumarchais’ The Barber Of Seville, attempts to ostracize Rosine, acceding to her sarcastic request to be confined in “a prison or dungeon” (58). The protagonist, The Count, leverages his ties with Bartholo’s barber, Figaro, to orchestrate an elaborate scheme to win Rosine’s affections.
Unwavering in his intent to secure Rosine as his own, Bartholo remains at her side, dubious of any ploys to lure him away. Instead of fetching a basin for his shave, Bartholo commands Figaro to do his bidding, exclaiming, “I can’t think of what I’m doing to leave that accursed barber here” (86). Bartholo’s distrust of Figaro stems from a paranoid fear that the barber will meddle with fate and court Rosine. Bartholo expresses similar sentiments when the furtive Count offers Rosine a music lesson. Disinterested, Bartholo “dozed off during this charming little piece” (81), yet vows to “stay here while you have your lesson” (80). Bartholo’s embargo on Rosine ultimately drives her away and dispels the fate he so zealously sought.
The Count, by contrast, attempts to dissolve Bartholo’s hold on Rosine by any means necessary. He admits that “I play so badly” (51), yet serenades Rosine, demonstrating his willingness to fight for her affections. The Count adamantly declares that “she is going to be my wife” (53) and requires Figaro’s help to “conceal my identity” (53). He subsequently pretends to be “half-seas over” (49) and propositions an intricate hoax to meet Rosine whereby he assumes the identity of a soldier in need of temporary lodging. When the gambit fails, The Count regroups and reintroduces himself as Alonzo, “Pupil of Don Bazile, organist of the grand convent” (75). While this maneuver falls through as well, The Count ultimately weds Rosine and validates his earlier vow of marriage.
The Barber of Seville, in essence, reminds readers that free will leads to short-term gain, yet fate wins out. Drawn together by a palpable bond, Rosine and The Count possess an ostentatious chemistry undeniable by any third party.
