Dec 4, 2008

The Tempest | Suggested Essay Topics

Act I, Scene 1
1. With disrespect for the king, the Boatswain says, “What cares these roarers for the name of king?” Explicate this passage in the light of the king’s authority at sea. To whose authority did the king succumb? Did the Boatswain have power over the king? Cite examples from the play to support your answer.

2. Gonzalo keeps a sense of humor in spite of the chaos of the storm. Write an essay explaining his joke concerning the Boatswain. Why did he think the Boatswain was the kind of fellow who was born to be hanged? Why would that keep him from drowning? What...