Star-crossed

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Star-crossed is a term that describes a pair of lovers whose relationship is often thwarted by outside forces. The term originates from astrology, where the position of the stars at the time of one's birth is believed to influence one's destiny. The phrase is best known from its use in Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, where it describes the ill-fated relationship between the two protagonists.

Origin and Meaning

The term "star-crossed" comes from the belief that the positions of the stars and planets at the time of one's birth can influence one's fate. In astrology, a person's destiny is often thought to be written in the stars, and when the stars are not aligned favorably, it can lead to misfortune. The term "star-crossed" thus implies that the lovers are doomed by the stars to suffer an unhappy fate.

Usage in Literature

The most famous use of the term "star-crossed" is in the prologue of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet:

"From forth the fatal loins of these two foes

A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life."

In this context, "star-crossed" indicates that the lovers' relationship is doomed from the start due to the unfavorable positions of the stars.

Examples in Popular Culture

The concept of star-crossed lovers has been a popular theme in literature, film, and television. Some notable examples include:

• Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
• West Side Story, a musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet
• Titanic, the 1997 film directed by James Cameron

Astrological Significance

In astrology, the term "star-crossed" is often associated with the concept of synastry, which is the study of how the positions of the stars and planets affect relationships between individuals. When two people's birth charts are not harmonious, they may be considered star-crossed.

See Also

• Astrology
• Romeo and Juliet
• Synastry
• Fate
• Destiny