Read Juliet's last speech in the excerpt: Juliet: O Fortune, Fortune! all men call thee fickle. If thou art fickle, what dost thou with him That is renown’d for faith? Be fickle, Fortune, For then I hope thou wilt not keep him long But send him back. What effect do these lines create? They flash back to scenes in which the characters playfully discussed Fortune; thus, they add a brief touch of humor. They provide a momentary easing of tension by foreshadowing Romeo's return to Juliet's side. They use flashback to remind the audience of Romeo's deep faith, leading the audience into a hopeful mood. They increase suspense, because by calling Fortune "fickle" they hint at an unlucky end for the lovers.

The excerpt provided belongs to Act III scene V, in which Romeo and Juliet are by the window exchanging words of love wondering whether they will meet again due to the enmity of their families and all the adversities implied. Fortune in the play determines the fate of the characters by a turn of her wheel. At times fortune can be favorable. Although fortune appears to be in their favor, it is known that fortune is unpredictable and can change at any moment. For this reason when Fortune is called "fickle" there is left a hint for both lovers to have an unlucky end for Fortune cannot be controlled.