The Tempest

In-Class Essay Topics

1. In class, we mentioned that there are three different "moral classes" or "moral types" of characters in The Tempest. Define the three different types of "morality affiliations" and discuss using specific character examples.

2. In class, we've discussed at length the theme of colonialism/colonization. There are foreigners and outsiders in the story that arrive on the magical island and attempt to conquer and rule over it. What characters or events in the play represent this theme?

3. Illusion vs. reality is an ongoing conflict and a central theme in The Tempest. What is real and what is unreal about the fantasy island Prospero rules over? What are some characters, events, or symbols in the story that blur the line between reality and magic/illusion?