The Tempest — Reading Guide

Discussion Questions

• Prospero forgives his enemies rather than taking revenge. Is this satisfying? Is it just?
• How does Shakespeare present Caliban? Is he a monster, a victim, or both?
• Ariel and Caliban both want freedom but seek it in different ways. What does Shakespeare suggest about the nature of freedom?
• Miranda says 'O brave new world, that has such people in't!' about a group of people who have just committed crimes against her father. How does Shakespeare use irony here?
• The Tempest is often read as Shakespeare's farewell to the theatre. What in Prospero's final speech supports this interpretation?

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