# How does Orlando Furioso develop the theme of Fate and Free Will?

> Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto

## Answer

Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto develops Fate and Free Will across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Characters frequently struggle against destiny and magical forces, such as enchanted fountains and prophetic oracles, while also making choices that determine their fates, highlighting the tension between predestination and personal agency.

Angelica's flight and the characters' choices are shaped by fortune and chance encounters.

Bradamant's destiny is foretold by Merlin, yet she must act to fulfill it by rescuing Rogero.

Angelica's capture and impending sacrifice seem fated, while Rogero's escape demonstrates agency.

## Evidence

- [canto-i](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-i.md): Angelica's flight and the characters' choices are shaped by fortune and chance encounters.
- [canto-iii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-iii.md): Bradamant's destiny is foretold by Merlin, yet she must act to fulfill it by rescuing Rogero.
- [canto-viii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-viii.md): Angelica's capture and impending sacrifice seem fated, while Rogero's escape demonstrates agency.
- [canto-xv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-xv.md): Andronica's prophecy foretells the destined unification of the world under Charles V, suggesting a predetermined historical course.
- [canto-xix](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-xix.md): Medoro's fate and Angelica's choice to heal and wed him.
- [canto-xxiii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-xxiii.md): Bradamant's wandering and Orlando's madness suggest a fateful inevitability, while characters like Rodomont assert their will through challenges.
- [canto-xxxiii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-xxxiii.md): The prophetic paintings in Merlin's hall depict future events, suggesting a predetermined destiny for the French kings in Italy.
- [canto-xxxvi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/orlando_furioso_se/chapters/canto-xxxvi.md): The revelation of Rogero and Marphisa's sibling bond is a fateful twist that resolves the strife.

## Links

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