What do stars symbolize in the play Romeo and Juliet?

Stars in Romeo and Juliet are symbolic of fate and destiny. They are often seen as guiding forces that shape the lives of the characters. For example, Romeo and Juliet first meet at a Capulet ball, where Romeo is initially drawn to Juliet because she "doth teach the torches to burn bright" and is compared to "a rich jewel in an Ethiope's ear." This suggests that Juliet is destined to be Romeo's love interest, and that their meeting is fated.

Additionally, the play is filled with references to astrology and the stars, which further emphasizes the role of fate in the characters' lives. For instance, Romeo says, "I am fortune's fool," and Juliet says, "O, I am fortune's fool!" These lines suggest that the characters are at the mercy of fate and that their actions are determined by forces beyond their control.

Ultimately, the stars in Romeo and Juliet serve as a powerful symbol of the power of fate and destiny, and they play a crucial role in shaping the lives of the characters.