Question and Answer Set: The Tempest
by William Shakespeare
1. What does the Boatswain’s interaction with the nobles during the storm
reveal about Elizabethan attitudes toward hierarchy and nature?
Answer: The Boatswain’s blunt responses show that in the face of natural forces like
the storm, social hierarchy becomes irrelevant. Survival overrides rank, highlighting
nature’s dominance over human status.
2. Why does Prospero create the storm? What does this reveal about his
character and motives?
Answer: Prospero creates the storm to bring his enemies to the island so he can
reclaim his dukedom and secure Miranda’s future. It reveals his desire for justice
and control, as well as his reliance on magical power.
3. Explain Miranda’s reaction to the shipwreck. How does this establish her role
and personality early in the play?
Answer: Miranda shows deep compassion and empathy for the shipwrecked sailors,
highlighting her innocence and moral sensitivity. This establishes her as a symbol of
purity and humanity in contrast to her father’s manipulative nature.
4. Describe Prospero’s account of how he and Miranda came to the island. How
does this backstory shape the audience’s perception of Prospero?
Answer: Prospero explains that his brother Antonio usurped him and set him adrift
at sea with Miranda. This backstory frames Prospero as both a victim and a figure
who uses power to restore justice, though his methods raise moral questions.
5. What does the conflict between Prospero and Caliban in Act 1, Scene 2
suggest about colonialism and power dynamics?
Answer: Their conflict reflects colonial attitudes: Prospero represents the colonizer
who imposes control and education, while Caliban symbolizes the colonized who
resents domination. The struggle over the island mirrors themes of exploitation and
resistance.
6. Why does Ariel remind Prospero of his promise of freedom? What does this
exchange reveal about their relationship?
Answer: Ariel reminds Prospero because he desires liberty after loyal service. The
exchange shows a master-servant dynamic, where Prospero exerts authority but
also keeps promises, highlighting themes of power and obligation.
7. Discuss the significance of music in Act 1, Scene 2 (Ariel’s song “Full fathom
five thy father lies”). How does it foreshadow the themes of illusion and
transformation?
Answer: Ariel’s song creates an illusion of Ferdinand’s father’s death, foreshadowing
transformation and renewal. It reflects the magical atmosphere of the play and
reinforces themes of deception and change.
8. How does Shakespeare use the imagery of the sea and storm in Act 1 to
reflect human vulnerability and fate?
Answer: The storm symbolizes chaos and lack of human control over destiny. It
humbles characters, showing that despite rank or power, they are vulnerable to
nature’s unpredictability, a central theme in the play.
9. What role does forgiveness versus revenge play in the development of
Prospero’s character throughout the play?
Answer: Prospero begins with intentions of revenge but ultimately chooses
forgiveness, demonstrating personal growth. This shift aligns with the play’s moral
message about reconciliation and the human capacity for mercy.
10. The play begins and ends with references to freedom and captivity. How are
these concepts explored through characters like Ariel, Caliban, and Prospero?
Answer: Freedom and captivity are central themes: Ariel longs for liberty, Caliban
seeks autonomy, and Prospero aims to free himself from vengeance and magic.
These struggles highlight power dynamics and the universal desire for
independence.
