Miranda embodies female perfection through her ethereal beauty and unspoilt innocence.
How does the island setting influence the atmosphere of the play?
It is the perfect location for a series of magic events which involve strange and exotic characters, far away from any kind of civilisation.
How can Prospero’s magic be compared with that of Sycorax?
His power represents that of a magician whereas Sycorax embodies black magic, which is the result of a pact with the devil.
What can the play be seen as a warning against? Why?
As a warning against the dangers of English expansion abroad, because Prospero is a European who has taken control of a remote island and maintains power throug
How can Prospero’s role be seen in relation to the theatre?
The play uses the full resources of the theatre and it can be seen as an exploration into the nature of theatre itself, since Prospero controls the whole situat
What sort of character is Ariel?
He is a spirit of the air who is very fast. He can become invisible and change his appearance.
What are the symbols of Prospero’s power?
The symbols are his robe, his staff and his books.
Who embodies black magic and what is it a result of?
Sycorax embodied black magic, which is the result of a pact with the devil.
In what ways does the play have a happy and enchanting ending and what accompanies it?
The play ends in peace and reconciliation as the criminals are forgiven, with music emphasising the atmosphere of enchantment.
What can Prospero’s domination of the island be seen as a symbol of?
He is a European who has taken charge of a remote island, exploiting the locals and maintaining power through threats and promises. He therefore becomes a symbo
How can Caliban’s character be seen in opposition to Miranda’s?
He is associated with darkness whereas Miranda is associated with purity.
What might be considered the message of Shakespeare’s ‘farewell play’?
Magic brings about the reconciliation of all levels of society and transforms the perceptions of human beings into a world full of beauty, promise and love. How
What contrast can we see in Caliban?
Although he is an instinctual being with a strange appearance, he can also be sensitive and has a sense of beauty.
How can Ariel’s role be interpreted in relation to the theatre?
He can be seen as an imaginative power that makes the effects of the theatre possible.
How can life on the island be seen as a kind of ‘utopia’?
There is a serenity in the human relationships and evil may turn into good. There is no tragic ending and the criminals are forgiven.
Your experience on this site will be improved by allowing cookies.