Text and Genre
How does the text conform to, or deviate from, the
conventions of a particular genre, and for what purpose?
The Tempest
defies genre classification. It incorporates elements of tragedy, comedy, and
romance using an autobiographical aspect. It starts with an awful tragedy
befalling a noble vessel. As one reads further however, aspects of different
genres come into play. We see the loved-soaked gazes of a romance, the bumbling
idiots of a comedy, and the ominous themes of a looming tragedy. The Tempest is
autobiographical, as Prospero's power is over the mind, like a playwright.
Throughout the play, Prospero adeptly manipulates the actions of his fellow
characters. It is as if he is himself a playwright. The unorthodox additions of
the romantic and comedic elements provide opportunities to unveil facets
Prospero's character. But ultimately, The Tempest is a tragedy without the
actual tragic end.
Power and privilege
How and why is a social group represented in a particular
way?
The Tempest has
several intriguing characters. Specifically however, Prospero, Caliban, and
Ariel are of a different sort. The Tempest, along with many other themes, has
an imperialistic aspect. Ariel and Caliban can be equated to the native peoples
of the English colonies. This is predominantly seen in Prospero’s treatment of
Ariel and Caliban, his equivalent to slaves. It accurately represents how colonial
matters work. It does this by showing, not only resentment and bootlicking on
the parts of the colonies, but also an unwavering superiority and sense of
entitlement from their oppressors. Prospero truly believes his treatment of his
slaves is correct. The use of two desperate slaves is supposed to give insight
into the two possible reactions to oppression, and the justifications for that
oppression. Caliban is represented as barbaric and impulsive. He is portrayed
as no better than a beast of burden. He and his appetites must be kept in check
by Prospero, a more civil being. Ariel is obedient and kind. He is grateful to
his master for being taken in.
Reader, culture and text
How could the text be read and interpreted differently by
two different readers?
The Tempest is very reflective of the day and
age of its creation. Because of this, its
themes change from person to person. A
man from Africa, in the 1700’s, might sympathize with the slaves and the life
that has been forced upon them as it is similar to the lives of those around
him. While a Victorian aristocrat from England might applaud the claiming of
the remote island as a colony, and the general enlightenment of the barbaric
islanders because of his own experience as a land holder. Interpretation and opinion are seen through the
lens of our personal experiences.
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