Whenever fate is an important theme in literature often times it is accompanied by a great deal of irony. The characters always have an understanding of their fate but their refusal to accept ends up being the driving force that causes their destiny to play out. Through this the author teaches the characters and the reader humility and acceptance of that which they cannot change.

When Count Almaviva sees Rosine for the first time he immediately falls in love with her. Dr. Bartholo witnesses this and keeps Rosine in his house under security so that no other person would be able to woo her. His actions obviously don’t dismay the Count because a fruit made forbidden only tastes that much sweeter. Locking Rosine in his house under constant supervision may be able to keep most of the gentlemen callers at bay but this does not make Rosine love him in fact it does the opposite and pushes her away. In the end the Count reveals his identity and marries Rosine immediately and Bartholo can do nothing about it.

The play unfolds like a typical comedy. Two people try to win the same woman’s heart. Through disguises the protagonist is successful and the woman falls in love with him. Comedies always end in marriage but what of Bartholo. He was only trying to keep the woman he loved in his arms and away from any usurpers. Can you really blame him from going against fate? Most people in his position would do the same but such is the hand of fate. Some people are dealt happiness and marriage while others are on the losing side of the bargain who are left alone with their dowry.