Shakespeare's "The Tempest" ACT I Summary

Question 1

Act I, Scene 1

Answer 1

On board a ship carrying King Alonso of Naples and his entourage, a boatswain directs the crew to fight a great storm, but the ship “appears” destined to sink.

Question 2

Act I, Scene 2

Answer 2

Prospero, the former duke of Milan, who has been stranded on a barren island for twelve years with his daughter, Miranda, explains to her that he used his magic to raise the storm and that he ensured that no one on the ship was harmed. He then tells her how, twelve years before, his brother Antonio conspired with Alonso, king of Naples, to usurp Prospero’s dukedom and put him to sea with Miranda, where they happened upon the barren island that is now their home. Having charmed Miranda asleep, Prospero summons the spirit Ariel, hears Ariel’s report of the tempest, and gives him further orders. Prospero wakes Miranda, and they visit Caliban, whom Prospero threatens with torture if he will not continue with his labors. Ariel, invisible, entices Ferdinand, son and heir to Alonso, into the presence of Prospero and Miranda. Prospero, delighted that Ferdinand and Miranda fall instantly in love, puts false obstacles in their way by accusing Ferdinand of treason [and by using charms to enslave him???].

Question 3

Completed Act I “Who Said It?”

Answer 3

DONE!