Fiddler on the Roof

Tradition! In an ever-changing world, is there really such a thing as tradition? If we are constantly changing tradition, how can it be tradition? By changing one aspect of a tradition, we might be changing it entirely. Perhaps change is merely an element of tradition. The world is always changing and we must change with it. Fiddler on the Roof demonstrates how change is a part of life, whether we choose to accept it or not. Fiddler on the Roof encourages us to accept change.
Tevye’s daughters represent the evolution of change. The threads holding tradition together loosen with each daughter’s action. Tzeitel and Motel mark the beginning of the evolution. Tzeitel begs her father to let her marry Model, rather than follow tradition and force her to marry Lazar Wolf. Perchick and Hodel make their own decision to marry each other. They ask for Tevye’s blessing, rather than his permission. Finally, Fyedka and Chava decide to run away together knowing they do not have Tevye’s appro...