The tempest

What “commonwealth” does Gonzalo describe when imagining an ideal society on the island?

A utopia without riches or rulers

What does Sebastian first think when he hears Ariel’s music?

That it signals madness

What trick does Caliban suggest to kill Prospero?

Strangle him in his sleep and seize his books

What vow does Ferdinand make while working?

Every log feels light because of her

What does Miranda do that shocks Ferdinand about her modesty?

She proposes marriage herself

In the harpy scene, what happens to the nobles’ swords when they try to draw them?

Their swords are made heavy and useless

What resolution does Gonzalo make after the harpy scene?

To protect Alonso from harming himself

Which goddess in the masque represents marriage and childbirth?

Juno (marriage) and Ceres (fertility)

What crime does Ariel accuse Alonso, Antonio, and Sebastian of?

Their betrayal of Prospero in Milan

Which three goddesses appear in the masque Prospero conjures?

Iris, Ceres, and Juno

What blessings do the goddesses give Ferdinand and Miranda?

Fertility, prosperity, and peace

What animals chase Caliban, Stephano, and Trinculo off stage?

Spirit hounds chase them

What word does Miranda use to describe the storm when she first sees it?

She calls it a “brave vessel” dashed in the storm

Which nobles are on the ship in the opening scene?

Alonso, Sebastian, Antonio, Ferdinand, and Gonzalo

What does Gonzalo joke about during the storm?

That the boatswain should not fear drowning because he looks destined to be hanged

How did Prospero and Miranda survive after Antonio usurped Prospero?

They were set adrift but supplied with food, water, clothes, and books by Gonzalo

Who was Sycorax?

A witch, mother of Caliban, who imprisoned Ariel in a tree

Why does Caliban resent Prospero?

Because Prospero enslaved him and took control of the island

How does Ariel first lead Ferdinand to Miranda?

By singing and drawing Ferdinand after him

What plan does Antonio propose to Sebastian?

Kill Alonso and Gonzalo so Sebastian can be king

How is Antonio and Sebastian’s plot foiled?

Ariel wakes Gonzalo

What does Caliban promise to Stephano if he kills Prospero?

To give him Miranda and rule the island.

What happens to the banquet set before Alonso and the nobles?

It vanishes when Ariel appears as a harpy

How does Alonso react after the harpy scene?

He despairs and feels punished

Why does Prospero suddenly stop the masque?

He remembers Caliban’s plot.

What does Prospero say he will break and drown before leaving the island?

His staff and his book.

What is Alonso’s reaction when he sees Ferdinand alive?

He is overjoyed and blesses their marriage.

How does Caliban react after Prospero exposes the foolishness of his plot?

He admits his mistake and seeks grace.

What specific favor does Ariel ask of Prospero early in the play?

To be freed early

How long does Prospero tell Ariel he must serve before gaining freedom?

Two days more.

What task does Prospero remind Ariel he once did for him?

Rescued him from Sycorax’s tree spell.

What does Prospero accuse Caliban of that justifies his harsh treatment?

Attempting to assault Miranda.

When Ferdinand first meets Miranda, what does he mistake her for?

A goddess.

Which character tries to cheer Alonso with humorous observations about the island?

Gonzalo

Who mocks Gonzalo’s utopian vision?

Antonio and Sebastian.

How does Stephano recognize Trinculo when they first meet on the island?

By his voice.

After Ariel’s harpy speech, who is most shaken with guilt?

Alonso

What does Iris do in the masque?

Introduces the goddesses.

What sport do the spirits perform after the masque ends?

 A dance of nymphs and reapers.

What plan does Caliban regret once Stephano and Trinculo get distracted?

Trusting Stephano and Trinculo.

How does Prospero first appear to the nobles in Act V?

 In his ducal robes.

What does Prospero do to Antonio and Sebastian when they are reunited?

Names their betrayal but does not punish.

How is the ship restored after the storm?

Ariel restores it and anchors it safely.

Who delivers the news that the ship and its crew are safe?

Ariel, disguised as the boatswain.