Why should you read Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”? - Iseult Gillespie

Summary

In Shakespeare's The Tempest, a tumultuous storm sets the stage for a tale of power, control, and revenge. Exiled Duke Prospero wields magic on a desert island, having been betrayed by his brother, Antonio. As he plots against Antonio with the aid of the spirit Ariel, the play explores themes of colonialism, agency, and justice through the struggles of Caliban, the island's original inhabitant. With each character vying for power, Shakespeare delves into the complexities of freedom and authority, culminating in Prospero's poignant realization of his own dependence on the audience, reflecting the intricate dance between creator and creation.

Takeaways

• 🌩️ The Tempest opens with a tumultuous storm, symbolizing the chaos and conflict within the play.
• 🧙‍♂️ Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, uses magic to control the island and its inhabitants after being betrayed by his brother Antonio.
• 👧 Prospero's daughter, Miranda, has been raised on the island for twelve years, showcasing themes of isolation and innocence.
• ⚡ Ariel, a spirit, aids Prospero in his quest for revenge against his brother and seeks his own freedom.
• 👹 Caliban, the island's original inhabitant, resents Prospero's domination and seeks to reclaim his birthright.
• 📜 The play explores themes of power dynamics, colonialism, and the moral dilemmas surrounding control and freedom.
• 💔 Caliban expresses his bitterness towards Prospero, revealing the complexities of master-slave relationships.
• 🌍 The Tempest raises questions about rightful ownership and the implications of colonization.
• 🎭 Shakespeare parallels Prospero's narrative with his own role as an entertainer, reflecting on the nature of power and creativity.
• 👏 In his final lines, Prospero acknowledges the audience's power, symbolizing Shakespeare's own relationship with his viewers.

Q & A

What is the setting of *The Tempest*?

The play is set on a desert island, which serves as a backdrop for themes of power, control, and freedom.

Who is Prospero and what is his relationship to the island?

Prospero is the exiled Duke of Milan who uses magic to control the island and its inhabitants. He has been marooned there for twelve years with his daughter, Miranda.

What led to Prospero's exile?

Prospero was betrayed by his brother, Antonio, who usurped his title and banished him, leading to his and Miranda's abandonment on the island.

Who are the other key characters introduced in the play?

The key characters include Ariel, a spirit who serves Prospero, and Caliban, the island's original inhabitant who is resentful of Prospero's control.

How does Caliban view Prospero's rule over the island?

Caliban feels that Prospero has wrongfully taken over the island, which he believes belongs to him by right of birth, as he is the son of the witch Sycorax who previously ruled it.

What are the themes explored in *The Tempest*?

The play explores themes such as colonialism, power dynamics, freedom, justice, and the moral implications of control over others.

What does Ariel seek throughout the play?

Ariel seeks freedom from Prospero's service, hoping to repay his debt to him and gain autonomy.

How does the play reflect on the cycle of power?

The play highlights the continuous cycle of power struggles, showing how those in control may become oppressors themselves, even as they seek liberation for others.

What significance do the final lines of Prospero hold?

In his final lines, Prospero acknowledges the power of the audience and his own humility, paralleling Shakespeare's relationship with his viewers as an entertainer surrendering to their applause.

How does *The Tempest* relate to colonialism?

The play has been interpreted as a commentary on colonialism, raising questions about rightful ownership, exploitation, and the consequences of invasion on indigenous cultures.