The Tempest , Act 1

Question 1

What is the effect of the transition between the shipwreck and prospero’s island?

Answer 1

Concentrates our attention on the long narrative that follows , to discover the cause of the shipwreck and its relevance to the ensuing action

Question 2

Why does prospero keep asking Miranda ‘thou attend’st not?‘

Answer 2

To make sure she is acquainted with the facts of her past and to make her aware of the evils that exist outside the safety of the island

Question 3

Explain the oxymoron ‘ loving wrong ‘

Answer 3

The use of the oxymoron “loving wrong” in this context underscores the idea that power can be both good and evil, and that the pursuit of power can sometimes lead us to make difficult and morally ambiguous choices. Prospero’s use of magic reflects this tension, and the phrase “loving wrong” serves as a reminder of the consequences of his actions and the difficult path he must navigate in order to achieve redemption.

Question 4

Why did prospero cause the storm?

Answer 4

He knew that his ‘enemies ‘ were sailing past the island