The Tempest, Act V - Comprehension Questions

To which of the ship’s passengers does Prospero show the greatest kindness, and why?

• Alonso, because he sincerely mourns the supposed death of Ferdinand

• Sebastian, because he is guilty of evil thoughts but no evil deeds

• Antonio, because he is Prospero’s brother and therefore Miranda’s uncle

• Gonzalo, because he gave Prospero and Miranda supplies when they were exiled

What is Antonio's reaction when confronted by Prospero about his past actions?

• Antonio remains silent.

• Antonio admits his wrongdoing.

• Antonio pleads for forgiveness.

• Antonio argues that Prospero is wrong.

How are Trinculo, Stephano, and Caliban dealt with when they are presented to the group?

• They receive a reprimand.

• They face harsh consequences.

• They undergo a trial and are found guilty.

• They are exiled to a distant land.

What does the Boatswain report to Prospero about the condition of the ship?

• He has discovered that the ship is perfectly intact.

• He has seen another ship approaching the island.

• He recalls visiting the island on a previous journey.

• He is the sole survivor of the crew.

What epiphany does Caliban have at the end of the play?

• He understands that he will soon be the king of the island.

• He understands Ariel better.

• He understands that Stephano is a simpleton.

• He understands that Prospero never had any magic.

What is one significant trait of Ariel's character as depicted by Shakespeare?

• Ariel is incapable of keeping secrets.

• Ariel finds humor in every situation.

• Ariel is always anxious and excited.

• Ariel empathizes with the suffering of others.

What realization does Prospero come to by the end of The Tempest, as reflected in his dialogue and actions in Act V?

• He realizes the importance of letting go of past grievances and embracing forgiveness.

• He realizes that magical abilities do not ensure personal fulfillment.

• He realizes the folly of relying on others for assistance.

• He realizes he was wrong to believe his brother had betrayed him.

In Act V, Prospero chooses not to reveal Antonio and Sebastian's conspiracy against Alonso. Based on Prospero's behavior and statements in this act, what is the most plausible reason for his decision to remain silent?

• He considers forgiveness to be more virtuous than seeking revenge.

• He believes they have already repented for their betrayal.

• He trusts his magical abilities to deal with them if they proceed with their plan.

• He thinks that if they make another attempt on Alonso's life, Ferdinand will ascend to the throne.

In the context of The Tempest's epilogue, how might Prospero's farewell be interpreted as Shakespeare's own farewell to the theatre?

• Prospero's direct appeal to the audience for applause

• The placement of the epilogue as the concluding part of the play

• The use of rhymed couplets in the epilogue

• Prospero's request for liberation from the audience

Which character is most likely to feel a sense of loss after the events unfold?

• Miranda, because she must leave the island that is the only home she can remember

• Prospero, because he loses Miranda and Ariel, the two people whom he loves most

• Ferdinand, because he will not become King of Naples right away as he had thought

• Alonso, because he must confess his crime against Prospero and ask forgiveness