Module A, Year 12 English Quotes

Caliban (Act 3, Scene 2) - Depiction of nature → beauty + danger. Imagery reflects colonisation (Islands beauty shadows Prospero’s control)

"the isle is full of noises… Sounds and sweet airs"

(Act 1, Scene 1) - Symbolism of chaos and disorder, reps external upheaval in the natural world and internal conflict within Prospero

"A tempestuous noise of thunder and lightning heard."

Prospero snapping at Miranda mid-story, doubting she's even listening to her own history.

"Thou attend'st not!"

Miranda’s spirit represents Felix’s unresolved grief + emotional connection. Miranda embodies the role of Ariel, emphasising her ethereal and supernatural influence on him

"Miranda’s made a decision”

Anne-Marie refusing to let Miranda be played as fragile.

" Miranda... She's a strong girl"

Visceral imagery, Caliban is portrayed as a monstrous, dehumanised figure, yet the imagery also evokes sympathy (marginalised)

"My name’s Caliban, got scales and long nails”

Prospero mirror biblical depiction of a God wielding power over the fate of humanity. Control over the island’s inhabitants, manipulation of events, choice to forgive those who wronged him, like the biblical theme of mercy and redemption. (Intertextuality)

“The rarer action is in virtue than in vengeance.”

Atwood uses the play within the narrative to reflect the journey of her protagonist, Felix, who mirrors Prospero. Felix’s desire for revenge parallels Prospero’s, while the prison setting acts as a reflection of the isolation of the island in The Tempest. (Resonance)

"His Tempest, his great work, and his revenge."