The end of Act One scene two

Explore the symbolism in Ariel’s song (397 – 403)

• Full fathom five thy father lies; Of his bones are coral made; Those are pearls that were his eyes: Nothing of him that doth fade, But doth suffer a sea-change Into something rich and strange. Sea-nymphs hourly ring his knell: Ding-dong. Hark! now I hear them—Ding-dong, bell.

• How does it highlight the play’s themes of death and rebirth?

Understanding the plot• Why does Prospero seek to delay the union between

Miranda and Ferdinand? (450 – 455)• How does Prospero justify enslaving Ferdinand? (454

– 457)• Which details reveal Prospero’s power over the other

characters? Is this sinister or benign?

ExtensionSome critics argue that Prospero’s magic is an elaborate metaphor for Shakespeare’s dramatic craft. What evidence can you find to support this in this scene?

Does Act 1 establish The Tempest a comedy?

Conventions of a Comedy Evidence from the PlayIntroduced to Hero and Heroine. The audience can see that they are suitable for one another.

They are both in a state of darkness/ ignorance. E.g. their true natures or true feelings are disguised. Often the disguise is literal.

A series of events follows in which they are kept apart. Obstacles are placed in their way, often by another character who we would view as the villain.

Chaos and ignorance results. The confusion is resolved.The couple recognise each other for who they truly are.

The play ends in marriage.

Does Act One establish The Tempest as a tragedy?

Conventions of a Tragedy Evidence from the playThe protagonist is of noble character and high status

He has a ‘fatal flaw’ which leads to his down fall (hubris/ hamartia)

There is a moment of recognition (anagnorisis) in which he recognises his flaws

The audience experience extreme emotion and are ‘purged’ of their own flaws (catharsis)

The play ends in death

Recap

In pairs, quickly identify the key quotations for your character:• Prospero• Miranda• Ferdinand • Ariel• Caliban