The Tempest Quiz

Prospero and Ariel have a master-servant relationship, with Ariel serving Prospero in exchange for freedom. Over time, Prospero becomes more compassionate towards Ariel, and Ariel’s loyalty is tested. By the end, Prospero promises to free Ariel, marking the culmination of their evolving relationship based on trust and release.

Revenge is a central theme, particularly for Prospero, who seeks retribution against those who wronged him. His desire for revenge drives much of the plot, but by the end of the play, Prospero chooses forgiveness over vengeance. This shift reflects the play’s broader themes of reconciliation and redemption.

Caliban is depicted as the "savage" native of the island, and his relationship with Prospero reflects colonial attitudes. Prospero’s control over Caliban and his claim to the island symbolise the coloniser’s domination over indigenous people. Caliban’s rebellion and desire for freedom highlight the tensions between colonisers and the colonised.

The masque scene is a symbolic moment in the play where Prospero, through magic, creates a vision of divine beauty and harmony for the lovers, Ferdinand and Miranda. It represents themes of illusion, power, and the fleeting nature of life. The masque also marks a turning point for Prospero, who begins to let go of his desires for revenge and control.

The storm is both literal and symbolic, representing the chaos that has unfolded in Prospero’s life. It sets the tone of conflict and disruption, but it also acts as a catalyst for the characters’ eventual transformation. The tempest mirrors the emotional turbulence that will ultimately lead to resolution and forgiveness.

The island is a place of magic, isolation, and transformation. It serves as a microcosm where characters are forced to confront their flaws, desires, and past actions. The isolation of the island allows for reflection and change, and its magical nature underscores themes of illusion, power, and control.

Forgiveness is explored through Prospero’s ultimate decision to forgive those who wronged him. Rather than seeking revenge, he chooses reconciliation, which is symbolised by his decision to release Ariel and return to Milan. Forgiveness is a key theme that resolves the play’s conflicts, emphasising redemption and personal growth.

The relationship between Ferdinand and Miranda represents innocence, love, and hope for the future. Their love contrasts with the older characters’ experiences and highlights themes of purity and renewal. Their union symbolises the restoration of order and harmony in the play, particularly in the context of Prospero’s own return to power.

Stephano and Trinculo are two drunken sailors who provide comic relief in the play. Their attempts to take control of the island and their misadventures with Caliban add an element of farce to the plot. They are foolish and easily manipulated, highlighting the theme of power dynamics and providing a contrast to the more serious characters.

The final resolution sees Prospero renounce his magical powers and prepare to return to Milan, where he will reclaim his dukedom. His decision to forgive his enemies and restore harmony contrasts with the earlier conflict. By choosing reconciliation over revenge, Prospero’s return to Milan signifies the play’s themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the restoration of order.