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Here are some mini-profiles with questions to reflect upon on each
of the characters in the play.
Prospero
Plays the most significant part - he is onstage the longest and
he controls the destiny of all the other characters.
1. Does he use his powers wisely and humanely
2. Is he as affectionate and as caring as he himself suggests?
3. Do you believe he has love for his servant Ariel?
4. Do you think he is too harsh in his treatment of Caliban?
Caliban
Described as wild and uncivilised, capturing much of our sympathy.
Almost everything we learn about him is from his master Prospero
who has his own agenda.
1. What evidence is there to suggest that he is more than simply
wild and uncivilised?
2. Does he have a right to the island?
Ariel
A spirit of the air, speedy, delicate and occasionally playful and
naughty. He is a provider of music and uses his notation to control
the characters.
1. Does Ariel have the same depth and complexity as Caliban?
2. What examples can you give of Ariel's musical powers controlling
the characters?
Miranda
As her name suggests, she attracts our admiration with her beauty,
innocence and modesty. She is nearly 15 and has lived on the island
for 12 years.
1. Is such an ideal representation of womanhood something we can
identify with?
Ferdinand
He is good looking, spirited and honourable.
Alonso- King of Naples
Although he has done bad things in the past he has some redeeming
qualities- he loves his son Ferdinand, he inspires his followers.
Gonzalo
Described by Prospero as a loyal, chatty old man with good intentions,
who is optimistic even at times of disaster.
1. Why does Prospero have this view of him?
Antonio
Antonio is Prospero's brother and he trusted him. He made an arrangement
with Alonso the King of Naples to usurp Prospero as Duke of Naples.
1. Why does Prospero forgive Antonio when he shows no remorse for
his crimes?
2. Why does Antonio banish instead of murder Prospero and Miranda?
Sebastian
As Alonso's brother and friend of Antonio he is sinful and shows
little sign of repentance.
1. Do you think he is as responsible as Antonio for his wrongdoings?
Stephano and Trinculo
Both provide a light and amusing contrast to the courtly characters
on the one side and Caliban on the other.
1. What is the reason for their inclusion in the play?
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