The Tempest by William Shakespeare

British Literature - Highland Park High School

A magical play about a sorcerer named Prospero and his fight to regain his title as Duke of Milian. Twelve years before the play takes place the King of Naples and Propero’s brother usurp his power by placing him and his then three year old daughter on a rotten boat destined for death. Instead they land on an enchanted isle which was once ruled by an evil witch. She has passed away and left her half man, half beast son named Caliban behind. Prospero who understands the ways of magic becomes ruler of the island with magic sprites and Caliban as his subjects. The play takes place at the turning point for Prospero. By chance the King of Milian and his brother are sailing by on a boat, so Prospero creates a tempest to make the ship crash onto the islands shores. Suddenly, Prospero finds himself teaching his new visitors lessons, trying to control the drunken Caliban, and maintain control over the ever energetic sprites, all at the same time. All of this explodes into an emotional ending were forgiveness is the ultimate lesson.

Summary by Aaron Gorelik.

Position Papers

Aaron Gorelik

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