I would consider this a "Double Post - Sunday" kind of deal, but I think I already used that name, so individual titles it is!
What is the difference between fortune and fate?
While discussing this topic in the classroom, I chimed in, saying, "Fortune has a more positive connotation." Why is that exactly? I suppose its because of the undesirable--and sometimes horrifying--resolutions that are attributed to it in ancient literature. In Oedpius Rex, the main character is "fated" to marry his mother, kill his father, and finally discover the fact the he did it. In grotesque fashion, Oedipus gouges his eyes out at the end of the story. However, there are stories that have "good" fates, such as Odysseus finally coming home. Perhaps fortune has a more positive connotation because it always entails something good, while fate can be either good or bad.
Another argument that could be made is on the aspect of freedom and choice. In a world where "fate" exists, everything is predetermined. There is no changing a series of events, no matter how hard you try. It's a box you cannot escape. In comparison, a world where "fortune" exists implies that events can happen that are out of the ordinary, unexpected. If that is possible, then the capability of impacting outcomes must also be possible. One limits the scope of possibilities, whereas the other allows for an unlimited amount.
I, for one, prefer a life I have direct control over. I don't want to be a cog in a "cosmic machine".
Both words to me seem made up to describe events that happen to someone through their life time. Fate has been shown to mean a more permanent occurrence in ones life whereas fortune is used to explain a sudden happening. Both are used to justify what is happening to someone, whether they believe it to effect them long term of for the time being. I agree that the choice of which word is used is based a lot on the belief system installed within the people, but to me neither is real or true. You just have to go out and make life yours with no worries or regrets.
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