The Role of Fate and Coincidence
LolitaExplores the theme of fate (McFate) in Humbert's narrative.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
Bearing strength in each eventdecreasingThe Concept of McFate
The Personification
The Devil's Agent
Humbert invents "McFate" as a mischievous force that orchestrates events. He sees coincidences as deliberate.
The Justification
He uses fate to explain his actions, as if he had no choice.
The Irony
McFate is a literary device that allows Humbert to avoid full responsibility.
The Key Coincidences
The Fatal Events
The McCoo Fire
Humbert's intended lodging burns down, leading him to the Haze house.
Charlotte's Death
She is killed by a car just as she is about to leave Humbert.
The Hospital Escape
Quilty takes Lolita while Humbert is ill. These events seem too convenient to be random.
The Acceptance of Fate
The Resignation
The Inevitability
Humbert comes to see his life as a predetermined tragedy. He accepts his fate.
The Artistic Order
He imposes a narrative structure on events, giving them meaning.
The Final Peace
He finds a kind of peace in the belief that everything happened as it had to.
Throughout the story, 1947-1952
1947-1948, various moments
1952, in prison
