Sunday, November 6, 2011
Act 3, Scenes 1-2 Questions
Act 3, Sc 1-2. Respond to the following questions: 1. How has Ferdinand’s and Miranda’s love deepened from their first interaction? What is Shakespeare suggesting about the true nature of love? 2. What does Caliban hope to accomplish by his plot against Prospero? Why does Shakespeare include this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles?
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1. When Miranda and Ferdinand first met, they talked about their love based on each other's appearances whereas in Act 3 Scene 1, their love has deepened and become based on their feelings and inner beauty. They are willing to go through pain for each other and agree to marry. Shakespeare is suggesting that although the beginning stages of love may be based on another's appearance, true love is a state when a person is willing to do anything for the other person, even if it means pain for themselves. He is also suggesting that he believes in love at first sight and perhaps he also believes that this is the most successful kind of love.
ReplyDelete2. As a result of his plot against Prospero, Caliban hopes to gain partial control of the island which he believes is rightfully his. He also wants to take revenge on Prospero and punish him for the cruel way he treated him. Shakespeare includes this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles because it is showing that the nobles are no better than a monster, that in essence, Antonio, Sebastian, and Caliban are the same. They are all power hungry and selfish, but in a way Caliban is better than Antonio and Sebastian. As far as the reader knows, Antonio and Sebastian haven't been treated badly whereas Caliban has been a cruelly treated servant of Prospero for a long time. Shakespeare is saying that Antonio and Sebastian should be looked at as the real monsters they are.
1. When Miranda and Ferdinand first met it was love at first sight but Prospero decides that he doesn't want to make it to easy on Ferdinand. Ferdinand admits that as long as he can see Miranda once a day then he will feel free. They describe each other as goddess like and divine. He offers to marry her after little interaction showing that their love is based on appearance. In Act 3 sc. 1 Ferdinand shows his love through actions by carrying the wood when he as he said he would not do such a task because of his rank. In this scene they get to know each other past appearances. Ferdinand learns Miranda’s name and Ferdinand tells Miranda about his past experiences with love. The most important thing that happens in their interaction is the commitments they make. They agree to marry each other. Miranda however says that even if Ferdinand rejects her she will die a virgin. Shakespeare suggests that there is such thing as true love and also the idea that love is slavery that frees you. The characters repeatedly talk about being slaves and being free. By using this language Shakespeare is playing with the idea that love is a type of slavery that will free you. Such as when Ferdinand said that if he would go to prison but could see Miranda everyday he would feel free.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban wants freedom from Prospero’s rule so he can give it to Stephano. Caliban does not want power but he is tired of being a servant. Caliban, Sebastian, and Antonio all resent the established power. This makes their interests similar. Their interests differ in that Sebastian and Antonio want power and Caliban just wants freedom. This shows that Caliban is not interested in political power. Shakespeare is trying to show traits about Caliban. By having this subplot we learn similarities and differences between Caliban and the nobles.
Raja Klein
1. Upon their first interaction, Miranda and Ferdinand were attracted to each other’s physical appearances. Miranda had never seen a man other than her father before and especially not an attractive one of her own age. Ferdinand was stunned by Miranda’s beauty as well. You may even call Miranda and Ferdinand’s first encounter love at first sight. In their second interaction, it is clear their love has deepened passed appearances and the two even agree to make a serious commitment to each other. Ferdinand explains to Miranda that he has had interest in multiple other women in the past, but they all had serious flaws. Miranda on the other hand, was perfect and had all the best qualities. Shakespeare is suggesting that the true nature of love is an instant romantic attraction between two people, love at first sight. To be in love with someone you do not have to get to know them very well and it does not take much but instant attraction to fall for someone.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban’s goals are to take control of the island and take revenge on Prospero for treating him poorly all these years. Shakespeare includes this parallel between Caliban’s conspiracy against Prospero and that of the nobles because he is trying to represent that even though these characters might come from different social classes and backgrounds, they all aspire towards the same goal-overthrow a person in power. Although Antonio and Sebastian are of much higher rank than Caliban, who is essentially “a monster” in a way no man is better than the others-each is egotistical and power hungry.
-Isabel Keene
1. Ferdinand and Miranda’s love has deepened from their first interaction and it is quite evident. Ferdinand expresses the fact that he works for Miranda and she is the reason he has so much happiness in his enslavement. Ferdinand essentially tells her that he lives for her now. As they get to know each other better, Miranda proposes marriage and Ferdinand agrees. Shakespeare could be suggesting that love is not based off of social status or superficial pairing, but rather off of compatibility, and it shows because Miranda has fallen in love with her father’s slave. Ferdinand and Miranda fall in love at first sight, and their love has nothing to do with their positions.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban hopes for Stephano to murder Prospero so he can be rid of the man who ruined his life and stole his island. He wants revenge on Prospero because he stole his island and enslaved him. By getting rid of Prospero, Stephano will rule the island with Miranda and Caliban can be is slave. Although Caliban hates Prospero for ruining his life, he is happy to serve Stephano because he is “saving” him from a terrible life under Prospero’s rule. As for why Shakespeare includes the subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles, I’m not entirely sure, but one reason could be to give insight to the audience of how the nobles act and how they feel about themselves and other classes.
-Morgan Welsh
1. Ferdinand's encounter with Miranda when he was carrying logs was much different from when they first met. Instead of pleading for Prospero to have mercy on Ferdinand, Miranda is pleading for Ferdinand to let her carry some of the logs. Ferdinand sees that Miranda cares about him, but because Ferdinand refuses to let Miranda carry the logs and let her undergo a "dishonorable" task. This is also tells Miranda that Ferdinand cares about her. Their love deepens and asks Ferdinand to marry her and Ferdinand accepts. Shakespeare shows that their love is blind, that even though they haven't had gotten to each other that much, they love each other so much. Also you should take note that Ferdinand is the first man, besides her father, she has ever seen, and it may have made her love even more blinding. When it comes to love it doesn't matter what is your social class or the things you've done, it only matters what you are inside and out.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban hopes to kill Prospero in the most menacing way possible. He hopes that with the help of Stephano that he may accomplish this goal. Stephano says that he will help and take Prospero's daughter as his queen and that he maybe be queen. Caliban is not asking for the whole island as he keeps rerferring to Stephano as lord, he just wants some of it. Caliban doesn't even say anything when Stephano says that he will call himself the king of the island. Caliban's plan is similar to Antonio's and Sebastian's to kill Alonso the king. Each of their plans are similar in the way that they both want to kill the ruler of two different areas.
1) Miranda is increasingly impressed by Ferdinand and his courtship towards her. Miranda has never seen another man of her age before other than her father and so she is captivated easily by Ferdinand. Even before Ferdinand made moves to court her, Miranda was entranced by him and the courtship that Ferdinand displays drives her even further towards him. Miranda's father, Prospero, openly discouraged Miranda from being attracted to Ferdinand in the previous act and Shakespeare showing Miranda defying her father's wishes shows how Shakespeare believes that true love transcends all boundaries and cannot be stopped by any person.
ReplyDelete2) Caliban hopes to regain control of his island by getting rid of Prospero and wishes to use Stephano as a tool in his plan. He wants nothing of Stephano and thinks nothing of him other than as a tool to pull a bolt out of his rear end. Caliban also hopes to hide behind Stephano and much as Propsero uses his own spirits to do his bidding for him, Caliban wants to do the same. If he acts in the manner he wants Stephano to act himself he knows he will surely perish within days so he wants Stephano to do his bidding for him. Caliban also wants to avenge the death of his mother but that motive is much less prevalent than his desire for power. I think Shakespeare added this mirroring plot-line to the plot that Antonio and Sebastian are cooking up because he wants to add more drama to the scene, more havoc and make a sort of action circle where it's not just one character pulling the strings on everyone. Also it can be used as a juxtaposition to the actions of Sebastian and Antonio and therefore gives more room for character analysis and portrays the people involved more.
- Ram K
1. From their first meeting, Ferdinand and Miranda's love has deepened from being just based upon appearance to actually getting to know and caring about each other. It pains Miranda to see Ferdinand working hard because it has gotten to the point where his pain is her own pain, and she is willing to work hard herself in order to relieve him. However, Ferdinand rejects her offer because he would rather suffer himself than watch her do it. This shows that although they haven't known each other long, they are both more than willing to endure pain for the other, and portrays the strength and growth of their love. In addition, they both know they can't see each other too often, but they are willing to accept that and agree to marry because just seeing each other occasionally is worth the time apart.
ReplyDelete2. In Caliban's plot against Prospero, he hopes to kill Prospero, not on his own by but the doing of Stephano and Trinculo. This way Prospero will no longer rule, and Caliban says he will worship Stephano in his place, but seeing as Stephano has no real means of exerting power over the island, Caliban may actually intend to seize the island for himself, or may not intend to yet but come to that decision later. Either way, it frees him of Prospero and gets revenge upon him. This parallel between Caliban's scheme and that of the nobles may have been included to make people only indirectly involved, such as the nobles besides Antonio, Sebastian, and Alonso, less inherently "bad," because Caliban's story didn't give Trinculo and Stephano the whole explanation of what had happened and what they were talked into doing, so perhaps the other people involved with usurping Prospero weren't entirely aware of what they were doing either.
1. When Ferdinand and Miranda see each other this time, they talk to one another and express how they feel about towards each other. Miranda and Ferdinand even try to do the work for each other which shows that the care. When Miranda says that she loves Ferdinand and she wouldn’t want any other partner in the world, even though she has never seen a man besides him and her father, Shakespeare is suggesting that true love knows who some one should be with. He is saying that Miranda knows who she is in love with, without comparing him to anyone else.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban wants Stephano to kill Prospero, and he promises that Stephano will be the king of the kingdom, and he and Trinculo will be the generals. Even though he says this, I think Caliban’s real plan is to make his way to the being the king of the kingdom. I think the subplot might be to add extra struggle between who’s in power of the Island and that will cause a more interesting plot. Especially once two different people who killed some one to be in power end up being the two who want the power, and might have to go against one another.
1. How has Ferdinand’s and Miranda’s love deepened from their first interaction? What is Shakespeare suggesting about the true nature of love?
ReplyDeleteMiranda and Ferdinand seem to be much more warm to one another now, Miranda talking to Ferdinand as more of a person, rather then a god or a temple. This seems to suggest that Shakespeare is implying that love at first sight is both possible, and is augmented through hard work and devotion, since Ferdinand has been slaving away at tasks set to him by Prospero to prove that he is worthy of his daughter by showing his resolve to win Miranda for himself by successfully completing them. Shakespeare says that diligence and sweat is the best route to true love.
2. What does Caliban hope to accomplish by his plot against Prospero? Why does Shakespeare include this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles?
Caliban wants a better life. He has been lorded over by Prospero for a dozen years, and he hopes that by convincing Stephano to slay his master, that he will gain a better life under his new master. Although Caliban, while sober, would obviously prefer to be free, he believes, while under the influence of alcohol, that Stephano would be a far better master then freedom, since he knows where to find liquor, and delivers it to his loyal “subject” often. Shakespeare includes this plot in order to form a humorous counterpoint to the nobles’ serious plot to murder the king.
1) When first seeing each other in act 1 Miranda and Ferdinand, talk about each others looks and how beautiful they think each other is. Where as in Act 3 scene 1 they go into more depth about their love and talk about each others personality and what they will do for that person. I think Shakespeare is saying how at first when trying to find a sole mate you pick them out bye looks, but when going deeper into a relationship personality is what sets people apart in finding compatability.
ReplyDelete2) I think Caliban is not only trying to kill Prospero, but also kill Stephano bye making Stephano turn on Trinculo and have them fight to the death. There all striving for power and trying to be the top dog. I think that not only will this cause problems between these three characters, but as well with the other stranded people on the island.
1) Miranda and Ferdinand's love has deepened to a love based on personality instead of physical traits. Ferdinand believes that Miranda is perfect and flawless, and the best created being in the world. Miranda cannot think of any other companion she would wish for in the world besides Ferdinand. Although they've only known eachother for moments, they are already madly in love. Shakespeare is suggesting that love can emerge between two people within a very short time of knowing eachother, perhaps going so far to say that "love at first sight" is possible. He is showing that if people are attracted and devoted to eachother on such a deep level after just seeing one another, that can be true love.
ReplyDelete2) In killing Prospero, Caliban hopes to gain possesion of the island, as he claims he rightfully should have. He wants to rid himself of his former master, and live a peaceful, perhaps drunken life with his new master. Shakespeare includes this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles to show that there are many different motives leading people to plot a murder. In the nobles case, they want a higher political status, while in Caliban's instance, he wants to destroy Prospero and gain control of the island. Perhaps Shakespeare is trying to show that despite the fact that Caliban is a "deformed monster" on the island, he is not so different from the nobles serving under the king.
The plain fact that Ferdinand and Miranda have made such great progress in their relationship in such a short time is a clear indicator that they are in love. The two are at the point where they are willing to suffer for one another, which is quite remarkable due to the fact that they have only known each other for a small period of time. Another point that shows the strength of their relationship is that even though Prospero attempted to turn Miranda away from Ferdinand, she quickly ignored him and found herself with her love. In this scene Shakespeare was exhibiting that when true love occurs, nothing can really get in the way of its meteoric rise and development.
ReplyDeleteCaliban hopes to rid his life of the main source of suffering, that being Prospero. Caliban ultimately intends to kill Prospero, putting Stephano in power. From that, he hopes that he can have more liberty with the new rule of the island, as the island is his one and only home. Without the island, he does not have much else. Shakespeare mirrors the plot in accordance with the nobles to show that at the core, every person is alike. The nobler men, Sebastian and Antonio, had the intentions to kill Alonso, the King, until Ariel came in and put an end to it. Caliban, a servant-monster, along with Stephano, also a servant, and Trinculo, a jester, mean to kill Prospero, the overseer of the island. This relates all five of the conspiring characters in that even though they are very different in class, they would all converge at the same point of killing another man. However, a class difference is also present, as Caliban only wants to kill Prospero to help get back his native land, an essential, while all the others are greedy in obtaining something that isn't theirs and to make their (possibly unnecessarily) easier.
-Noah P
1) At first, Ferdinand and Miranda just liked each other for their looks. I think their love evolves more in Act 3 Scene 1. They start to develop a deeper connection and love each other for their inner selves. They are willing to put in the work (both physically and emotionally) to get each other. That's why Ferdinand performs these tasks for Prospero so willingly; he wants Miranda. Shakespeare is not giving them a free relationship. Rather he wants them to work and fight for their love. This battle may even draw them closer together in the end.
ReplyDelete2) Caliban wants to be free and have a better life. He does not care about being in power. He just wants to live a life where he isn't controlled by Prospero. Stephano is using this opportunity to get power. Caliban prefers Stephano as a master to being free because Stephano keeps Caliban drunk and happy, and doesn't treat him as badly as Prospero treats him.
1) When Ferdinand and Miranda first meet. they fall deeply in love partly due to the fact that Miranda has never seen another man from her father and Ferdinand has never seen a women. their physical appearances atract each other greatly and when they start to talk to each other, they start fighting over who should be doing the hard work of moving the logs. After a short period of time Ferdinand and Miranda start truly expressing themselves to each other and how they feel. Ferdinand then admits that he is deeply in love with her and she confesses back. Ferdinand proposes to Miranda and she agrees to end the encounter with each other
ReplyDelete2) Caliban hopes to kill Prospero once and for all and marry Miranda. in Scene two they have the meeting about how they plan to kill Prospero and take Miranda as a prize but Ariel was listening to this meeting unseen until heard at the end playing music. shakespeare is trying to show that even though Caliban is some what of a monster, he isnt so different from some of the other men
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ReplyDelete1. Miranda and Ferdinand definitely deepend the sincerity of their love and commitment for each other; at the end of their interaction they declared they would marry each other. The last time they met with each other it was also with Prospero so they weren’t able to really talk to each other. Shakespeare is suggesting the fact that they were love at first sight. The moment they looked at each other they fell in love and no one, not even themselves would tear them apart. They couldn't think of anything else.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban is hoping to get Prospero killed so he and his new master could rule the island, correctly. Its also like getting revenge for the many years that he has been enslaved by Prospero. Its amazing how quickly he turned to the other side because of resentment towards someone who took over him. Resentment he had been bottling up for many years.
1. Both Miranda and Ferdinand profess their love in quite articulate, dramatic phrases and metaphors. This is common through out The Tempest but they seem extremely embodied in their feelings. This is where I agree with Luc, in that the consequences of their very sudden and deep infatuations could be either positive or negative. Based off other Shakespearean plays, I would not be surprised if this has a negative toll on either themselves or people around them. Often, young love is blind.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban is blinded by his vengeance toward Prospero as well as his alcohol abuse. I believe that the only reason he wants to kill Prospero is to taste that sweet feeling of revenge and "getting even". Lastly, I think Shakespeare included this subplot to appeal to his audience. His audience was predominately low-class so describing through his acts that what the lesser Caliban was plotting was more pure and righteous than what the noble, upper-class were plotting really appealed to the audience and how they felt about the upper-class.
Since they first met, Miranda's and Ferdinand's relationship has deepened. At first, they were just flirting intensly, but now they want to marry. This is a big step in just a short amount of time. To me, this relationship seems highly unlikely, but that s because we live in two very different time periods. This shows us that Shakespeare believes in love at first sight, and very pure love at that.
ReplyDeleteCaliban hopes that if he kills Prospero, then his ruler, Stephano will be much kinder, and he might get some of his liquor. Like i said before, perhaps he wishes to kill Stephano once he gains control of the island, so that it will be his once again. The relationship between Caliban and Stephano is related to the relationship of Sebastian, Antonio and Alonzo. This relationship is showing us the monstrosity of Sebastian and Antonio.
-Duncan
1) Surprisingly, Miranda takes the "first step" in the relationship with Ferdinand by asking him whether or not he loves her. Compared to the first time the two met (it was more of an awkward interaction) Miranda appears much different. Her shy impression she made on me has disappeared and developed into someone more likely to take risks. However, the relationship as a whole hasn't exactly "deepened"-Ferdinand is still in awe by her appearance (as he was before)-I think the only thing maturing about their relationship is Miranda. Ferdinand expresses his love in Act 1 Scene 2 by saying, "Most sure the goddess by whom these airs attend..." He is judging her on her looks and voice, whereas Miranda (who has no experience with men) is able to see the who this man really is. Ferdinand doesn't even bother to ask her name! In a way, you could say that their love has deepened because it went from a sudden connection to marriage, but before the wedding I hope they actually get to know each other better because that should always be important to have in a strong relationship.
ReplyDelete2) I expect Caliban won't be able to successfully complete his plan of killing Prospero because his only companions are extremely drunk and seem to be easily distracted. Shakespeare probably threw in this plot twist/dual-plot to create suspense; whilst Prospero is awaiting the marriage of his daughter, Caliban is scheming behind his back. This sort of plot twist occurs a lot in books, to change up the story, or make it more interesting. It is very frustrating because you know something Prospero doesn't (dramatic irony), and you can't help but yell at the book thinking Prospero will hear you.
1. At their first interaction, Miranda and Ferdinand’s love seemed to be based solely on appearance, whereas now it seems to be more emotional. I think Shakespeare is suggesting that love is most rewarding when it has to be worked for, rather than encouraged to happen. I believe this based on Prospero’s actions, as it would be in his interest for them to get married as soon as possible, but by making their relationship difficult he is ensuring a lasting marriage and therefore a stronger tie to power. It also helps that it would make his daughter happier.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban hopes to improve the station of his current master to the one of his former master. This will increase his status because his reputation is based partly on that of his master, like any servant. This is also the perfect way for Caliban to get revenge for Prospero’s treatment of him. I think Shakespeare is trying to show that human nature (because in this light Caliban is human) is selfish, and that if allowed to people would better themselves at other’s misfortune no matter how closely related they are. I think he is also trying to show that this happens to both social classes, the nobles representing the rich and Trinculo, Stephano, and Caliban representing the middle class/poor.
-de Mehr Haywood
1. From the first time Miranda and Ferdinand met it was a love at first sight feeling. Yet as the play progresses it becomes apparent that they appreciate/love each other on a deeper level. So instead of seeing what meets the eye visually, they’re learning to see the beauty within each other on the inside. I think what Shakespeare implies here is that looks always come first. While people may say it’s what’s inside that counts its human nature to want to find their love attractive.
ReplyDelete2. By scheming against Prospero Caliban hopes to gain some control over “his” island. While maybe it will be Stephano’s, he hopes to influence his master’s decisions to reflect what Caliban thinks is right for his precious island. Also, revenge plays a large part is Caliban’s disapproval of Prospero being on the island. He wants to get back at Prospero for the wrong he’s done to Caliban. I believe the reason Shakespeare mirrors the plot of the nobles is to show how similar all humans are, that when but in certain situations all humankind will act the same. Shakespeare also infers that all human nature leads to two goals: power and glory.
Ferdinand's and Miranda's first interaction seemed like an immediate connection based on lust for one another. However, now their love has deepened into further feelings, intimacy, and love. When Ferdinand says that she shall be his wife when they first met, I was skeptical due to they didn't even know each other, but now as he sighs and talks to himself about her as he works, we know he means it when he gives her his hand in marriage. Miranda was the similar, in the beginning it could have been false feelings she felt since he was only the third man she ever met, but now we see that she is very forward with conviction of the love she feels for him as she openly ask him does he love her, which is something in today's society that girls rarely do. No matter how sweet and passionate this moment was, I still fill doubtful and like they jumped the gun because of how young they are and how long they've known each other, but it appears that this was acceptable in Shakespearean times. I think Shakespeare's suggesting that this is true love though, where you feel an instant connection with someone and know that you're meant for each other. In respect to that, marrying quickly comes because you've felt like you've known one another all your lives and wanting to hurry up and start the rest of your lives together. It's a fairytale and wishful happiness that everyone desires to have one day.
ReplyDeleteCaliban is either too afraid (of Prospero and his spirits) or he knows that he is not powerful enough to overtake Prospero, therefore he has Stephano do his dirty work for him and hopes to gain a little dominance with Stephano at the same time. The other obvious contributor is Caliban striving for revenge against Prospero. Stephano also treats Caliban more equally (probably because being the 'drunken butler' he does not get much respect and Caliban's the first to show that towards him) and Caliban must have reasoned that he'd rather be under his rule and have him to admire then Prospero. I believe Shakespeare tosses this subplot in to add to the chain of revenge against one another which I find ironic. First we have Prospero, who's own brother exiles him, and in return Prospero goes and steals the rule of the island from Caliban (you'd think Prospero would be sympathetic, but he goes and does basically what Antonio did to him...), and now Caliban and Prospero are putting into action their plan to get their rightful tiles back. Off to the side we then have Antonio encouraging Sebastian to kill his brother, Alonso, which Sebastian readily commits to do. I believe Shakespeare has these smaller plots for a reason and in the end everything will come together as Prospero becomes the Duke of Milan again, Alonso remains the king, and for Caliban, I still have yet to conclude what will become of him and Stephano.
1) When Miranda first met Ferdinand in Act 1 Scene 2, she only seemed to love him because he is only the third man she has ever seen. But once Prospero decided to cause trouble, they started to appreciate their love more than they did when they first met. In Act 3 Scene 1, Ferdinand and Miranda tell each other how they are willing to do almost anything for each other. For example, when Miranda offers to help Ferdinand with the wood so he can rest, he refuses and says that he'd rather break his back than make her work. At the end of this scene they decide to get married. I think that Shakespeare is suggesting that love at first sight can be a very powerful thing and it can lead to true love. True love can make someone love someone else so much that they would do anything just to be with that person.
ReplyDelete2) In Act 3 Scene 2, Caliban wants revenge on Prospero for stealing the island from him so he asks Stephano to help him kill the magician. Caliban thinks that if Stephano rules the island he will be treated better and he might be able to gain part of it back. I think that Shakespeare added this part to the plot because it shows that no matter what class the characters are, they are still not afraid to fight for power over the island. After reading this I couldn't help but wonder if Caliban was only using Stephano to hide his intentions so later on in the play he could become the king of the island.
-Celine
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ReplyDelete1. When both Ferdinand and Miranda saw each other for the first time, they fell in love with one another's appearances. Also, Ferdinand was the only man Miranda had ever seen besides her father. Now that time has passed however, the feelings of love and intimacy for each other has greatly increased. They appear to have a rush of love for each other too, looking at their conversation in the begging of scene three. This sudden rush may be due to the fact that a whole development of a relationship can not be shown in the time of a play, or maybe the "love a first sight" version of affection commonly found in Shakespeare's plays. Continuing, Shakespeare could be saying that love is decided up too quickly, and in this play, the quick love between Ferdinand and Miranda could be portrayed as a joke. This being jokingly, but also having a bit of seriousness in it too. This based off Shakespeare's marriage where he didn't seem to in love with his wife giving her only his second best bed with all its accompanying furniture in his will.
ReplyDelete2. In Caliban's current drunken state his hatred of Prospero is lashing out making him want to kill him and have this new great man Stephano who gave him all this wonderful liquor to be his master. Not thinking that Stephano could be just as worse as Prospero is now. However, I think Caliban has an overall plan that if Stephano ends up managing to kill Prospero that he will just overthrow Stephano and be able to go about his own life. This is just my speculation though. This subplot mirroring Sebastion and Antonio's plans to kill Alonso is put in place to add to almost make a mockery of it. It shows how the Noble's endeavors are like to those of a group of drunkards which Shakespearian audiences would find very humorous.
Miranda and Ferdinand are truly in love now; they proclaim their love repeatedly throughout this scene. The difference upon this interaction and their last is that Miranda now talks to Ferdinand reflecting upon his mental qualities as opposed to his physical appearance. Shakespeare seems to believe that although love at first sight is definitely possible, getting to know someone can make the relationship much stronger. In other words, although love at first sight exists; love itself can always become more present over time. In addition, Shakespeare writes that that physical labor done for loved ones will always strengthen a relationship. Ferdinand has been working very hard at the chores Prospero has given him and in doing so exemplifying his devotion for Miranda. He wants to show Prospero that he is worthy his daughter- Ferdinand does these errands working as hard as he can. Miranda also confesses that she would rather have the burden of his pain on her back than watch while her true love is in pain. I would say this final aspect of Shakespeare’s perception of love is relevant even today.
ReplyDeleteCaliban is really only thinking of himself at this point in the story. It was for his own benefits that he chose serve Antonio as opposed to Prospero, because with Antonio he gets alcohol and respect whereas with Prospero he receives insults and gruelingly hard work. Caliban strikes me as a man of comfort as opposed to a man who desires power. I do stand by what I said in my last post though, Caliban is a bit of a hypocrite while arguing with Prospero because he hates being controlled by her and says that the island is rightfully his to rule- meanwhile he is in full support of someone else ruling over him.
1. How has Ferdinand’s and Miranda’s love deepened from their first interaction? What is Shakespeare suggesting about the true nature of love?
ReplyDeleteShakespeare makes it clear that loveis based upon the initial encounter, or "love at first sight". Miranda and Ferdinand seemed to be in love from the second they met, and Act 3 Scene 1 seems to reinforce the point that they immediately fell in love. I feel as though this is the first true encounter- the other one was directly monitored by Prospero, limiting the conversation considerably, predominantly on Miranda's behalf. While Prospero is also watching this conversation, he chooses to remain hidden as to eavesdrop on the conversation, but Miranda and Ferdinand do not know this, meaning the conversation is limited only to what they feel comfortable saing to each other- quite a different scenario. Miranda and Ferdinand have now confirmed there love for each other, making the love between the two deepen. Interestingly, the seem to have unofficially married at this point, which also goes back to the idea that love is formed from the first encounter. I understand how many people beleive in modern society would find this unnatural, but it is merely and archaic beleif. This idea of love seems dependant upon the society. If one lives in modern societ, the concept is "slow and steady", but in this older European society people like Ferdinand were powerful, and beleived that they could have whoever they wish, thus explaining Ferdinand's standpoint. As for Miranda, it is likely because she beleives she will never meet another man. One must remember this is for enjoyment- if the entire play was hatred between people, it would only suit a few people needs. Thus, Shakespeare's idea of "love at first sight" is logical and employed in many of his works.
2. What does Caliban hope to accomplish by his plot against Prospero? Why does Shakespeare include this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles?
Caliban seeks some power and control over the island, yet cannot do it alone. Thus, he seeks the companionship of his new master to rid the island of Prospero so that he has some power. Caliban easily could take control of the island- it is only a matter of time before he realizes he is more powerful than Stephano and take over the island, and Prospero is the only person he truly fears (I doubt he fearsd Ariel, but it is a possibility). Thus, his plan is logical, and he takes advantage of Stephano and Trinculo being drunk to fulfil his own desires. Shakespeare makes this mimic the plot of the nobles in part to show that Antonio is as evil as a monster. This will help persuade the viewers that Antonio is evil by nature, thus possibly justifying what Prospero might do later in the play. Also, it could have the meaning that appearance does not matter to who one is- a monster can be equivelant to a nobleman if he aspires to. Even though Caliban is the child of Sycorax and the devil, he may some purpose to redeem himself during the play. Whatever the reason, Shakespeare obviously had a specific purpose for this, and perhaps it will be revealed throughout the process of the play.
-Cole Kennedy
1. The first time Miranda and Ferdinand saw each other, it was love at first SIGHT. There they "loved" each other based on only the appearances of each other. Then in Act 3 Scene 1 their love deepens and becomes based on personality. Their decision for marrige at the end of the chapter prove that Shakespeare Believes in Love at First Sight.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban hopes that with the death of Prospero, who has unfairly taken possesion of the island, Caliban will get what is rightfully his. Or it would go to Stephano, who treated Caliban with respect. Like everyone else in the world Caliban would rather be in charge, or have someone who is kind to you in charge rather than someone who is cruel and takes advantage of you. I believ Shakespeare put this in hear to show that any person in any class has or has thought about doing something bad in their life. This means that Shakespeare believes that no one is perfect.
1. When Miranda and Ferdinand first met they didn't know anything about each other, and the love was just based on looks. But the second time they met it was a much deeper interaction because they talked and realized a lot more about each other. I think that after Miranda asked to carry the logs Ferdinand decided that Miranda actually cared about him. I also think that because Ferdinand said no, and would let her carry the logs, Miranda decided that he cared for her too. I think that Shakespeare is suggesting that there is such a thing as love at first sight, but that you really have to know a person and how they act before you are really in love.
ReplyDelete2. I think that Caliban has decided that Prospero treats him badly and uses him a lot. Prospero came to the island that Caliban already lived at and started to exploit him, and use him. I think that Caliban thinks that Prospero is ungrateful and materialistic. Caliban wants to kill Prospero because then he doesn't have to deal with that anymore. I think that Shakespeare put this subplot in the play because it shows Caliban as mroe of a human than a monster.
When Ferdinand and Miranda first met it was love at first site and mostly for Miranda because she has seen no other man than her father and Caliban so of course she would fall in love with this stranger. Since Prospero saw this immediate love they had for each other he decided to test Ferdinand to see if is is "worthy" of Miranda. By letting them only see each other for about an hour a day helped them appreciate their love for each other a lot more. Ferdinands love is great for Miranda, as shown in Act 3 Scene 1 lines 27 "I had rather crack my sinews, break my back, Than you should such dishonor undergo While I sit lazy by". Shakespeare is suggesting that love can be by first site.
ReplyDeleteCaliban is drunk and here is where all his hatred for Prospero is coming out. He wants him dead so Stephano can be the ruler of "his" Island which was taken away from him by Prospero. Caliban does hope to gain some more of the power over the island when Stephano kills Prospero. If this plan is a success I think Caliban will try gain all the power of the island since he can't do that now because of prospero the magician can literary control what Caliban can do.
Ferdinand and Miranda interact for the first time and before they even know each-others name they are already in love. Miranda, apposed to Ferdinand, has never seen another man besides her father before she met Ferdinand. Ferdinand had met people before this moment but Miranda has caught his eye. This to me is the definition of love at first sight; before they introduced themselves they had fallen in love. I think Shakespeare is suggesting that true love at first sight is real. In multiple books of his suggests this same idea for example “a Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Also he suggests marrying early is not a bad idea, and how in a “love at first sight” moment when it feels right then early marriage may be the best way to go because you find the other person as your soul mate.
ReplyDeleteCaliban wants to be free and away from the rule of Prospero; Caliban doesn’t want to gain power or anything more but just have a new ruler. The easiest way to do so is to kill Prospero, which is what Caliban hopes the outcome of his plan will be. Because of Caliban’s great disliking of Prospero, Stephano sees that and steps to the idea of taking power of Caliban while he is insightful of how having a new ruler will be compared to Prospero. Slaves are usually not the main act of plays, however in the tempest Caliban isn’t the main act but he is a large part of the plot. Shakespeare added the plot of Caliban’s plan against Prospero was surprising the readers.
Ferdinand and Miranda's love for each other has grown a considerable amount since they last saw each other back in act one, scene two. However, I think it was love at first sight for both of them. This new scene has only confirmed their love for each other. Their love for each other has grown so fast, in fact, that Ferdinand has already proposed to Miranda, and this is only the second time they've met! I believe that Shakespeare is suggesting that the true nature of love is love at first sight. You can even look at his other plays like "Romeo and Juliet" where their love for each other is so strong that they kill themselves. I think this is a pattern with Shakespeare; at least one major death, and one love story.
ReplyDeleteCaliban hopes to achieve freedom and control of the island with his plot against Prospero. He also wants to make Prospero pay for treating him like dirt for all the years he's been on the island. If his plot succeeds, then Stephano will be king, and he and Trinculo will be his 'viceroys,' or his advisors. This way, Caliban will at least feel that he has some control over the island, and maybe in the future, he might even consider throwing over Stephano and once again taking control of "his" island.
1. How has Ferdinand’s and Miranda’s love deepened from their first interaction? What is Shakespeare suggesting about the true nature of love?
ReplyDelete- I Think that Ferdinand's and Miranda's first encounter with each other was a type of love at first sight type thing, but now it seem like they really connected on a more deeper and emotional level. I think Shakespeare is suggesting that true love is when you'll do anything for that particular person an example of that in the reading is when Miranda says in (act 3 scene 1 lines 83-86) " I am your wife if you will marry me; if not, I'll die your maid. To be your fellow You may deny me, but I'll be your servent Whether you will or no
2. What does Caliban hope to accomplish by his plot against Prospero? Why does Shakespeare include this subplot mirroring the conspiracy of the nobles?
-He hopes to accomplish burning his books and killing him obviously. He wants to do this i think to get revenge on Prospero and to be free from his rule. I am not really sure why Shakespeare adds this kind of sinister subplot overall i think he adds it to enhance the intensity of the play and to keep the audience on their toes?
-Phillip E. Parker Jr.
JB posting for Robert (who had technical difficulties):
ReplyDelete1. For Ferdinand and Miranda, it was love at first sight. While the expression “love at first sight” may incur that it is only a physical attraction, I think for the two of them it had to be something more than that, based on how they talked and acted towards each other. Their love has deepened through the amount of time they have spent together and through Prospero’s carefully measured forbiddance of them being together, and his imprisonment of Ferdinand. They now speak of going through pain for each other as pleasurable, and they decide to get married. I think Shakespeare is suggesting that true love can be found at first sight, but also that love is strengthened over time and hardships.
2. Caliban hopes to kill Prospero and make his new, kind master the lord of the island. I think Shakespeare includes this subplot because it mirrors the nobles’ conspiracy, and it shows that Prospero is surrounded by enemies, and it makes it harder for Prospero to succeed. It could lead to a complication between Stephano & company and the other scheming noblemen. It also opens some more comedic opportunities, especially for Ariel, to mess with Stephano, Caliban and Trinculo.
1. Ferdinand and Miranda's love for each other is definitely something that is worth being skeptical about. Obviously, they have just met, so this love is based off of "love at first sight", a common theme in Shakespearean plays. Whether or not Miranda is just in awe because she has never met another man and can't recognize the feeling of lust or because she really truly loves him is up to the reader's interpretation. Personally, I think young love is often over-dramatized in Shakespeare's plays, and in teen years, feelings are very exciting and often overpower any kind of reason. However, after they get to know each other at least a little, I believe they could really be in love. But I still question if their relationship really has deepened. If you look closely, it is still pretty shallow. I would suppose Shakespeare is using Ferdinand and Miranda to show how more than anything else, love is based off of appearance. Ferdinand thinks Miranda is beautiful and I honestly don't think he cares much about her personality, he just wants to be with her because he thinks it's meant to be.
ReplyDelete2. Caliban plots for Stephano to murder Prospero because he does not want to be a servant anymore. He wants partial control but he definitely does not want all the power for himself. He hopes that Stephano, a kinder man, will rule over him and he will be a "viceroy" (advisor?) along with Trinculo. Caliban does not seem like a particularly spiteful character but rather he is finally taking the initiative to stand up for himself. The subplot of the nobles alongside this is very interesting to me. The nobles are also conspiring to overthrow their leader, but I think they are doing it for selfish reasons so they can gain more power. Whereas, Caliban is doing it out of a state of desperation.
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