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Summary The Tempest [Study Note]
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The Tempest study note covers the play in its entirety and provides an in depth analysis that will aid in essay writing for the matric final exam.
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The Tempest[Study Notes]
, 2
Table of Contents
Setting…………………………………………………………………………………3
Summary……………………………………………………………………………….4
Characters……………………………………………………………………………..13
Themes………………………………………………………………………………..20
Symbols and Motifs…………………………………………………………………25
Quotes…………………………………………………………………………………29
Essay Questions……………………………………………………………………35
References……………………………………………………………………………37
Lily Ngulube
, 3
Setting
The setting of "The Tempest" primarily takes place on a remote, enchanted island. This island is
isolated from the rest of the world and serves as the stage for the unfolding drama. It's a place of
mystery, magic, and wonder, filled with lush landscapes, caves, and the wildness of nature.
Despite the island's apparent beauty, it's also an unsettling place. It’s inhabited by spirits, including
Ariel and the monstrous Caliban, and it's under the control of Prospero's magical abilities. The island
becomes a canvas for Prospero's manipulations, where he orchestrates events to right the wrongs done
to him and regain his lost dukedom.
The island setting contributes significantly to the play's themes of power, control, and the clash
between civilization and nature. It's a place where characters are removed from their familiar society,
allowing for introspection, transformation, and the opportunity for redemption and forgiveness.
The storm, or tempest, which occurs in the opening scene, serves as a catalyst for the narrative,
bringing the characters to the island and setting the stage for the unfolding drama. This storm
symbolises both the chaotic upheaval in the lives of the characters and Prospero's ability to wield the
forces of nature through his magical powers.
The island setting is crucial to the atmosphere of the play, providing an otherworldly backdrop against
which the themes of manipulation, forgiveness, and the complexities of human nature are explored.
Lily Ngulube
, 4
Summary
Act I (Scene One)
In Act 1, Scene 1 of "The Tempest," the play opens with a vivid and dramatic scene of
a tempestuous storm at sea. The audience witnesses a ship in the midst of a violent
tempest, created by Prospero's magical powers. The ship is carrying King Alonso of
Naples, his son Ferdinand, Antonio (Prospero's brother), and other noblemen.
The storm is incredibly intense, causing panic and chaos among the passengers and
crew. The sailors are struggling to navigate the ship amidst the raging sea. The
noblemen react differently to the crisis; King Alonso is deeply fearful for his life, while
Antonio and Sebastian are more concerned about the safety of the vessel.
Amidst the chaos, the Boatswain, in charge of the ship, is trying to maintain order and
control, despite the noblemen's demands and panic. His stern and practical demeanour
contrasts with the aristocrats' anxiety.
The storm serves as a catalyst for the play's main conflict and sets the stage for the
characters' eventual arrival on the enchanted island, marking the beginning of their
transformational journey and Prospero's plan for retribution and reconciliation. This
Lily Ngulube
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