Shakespeare Today: The Tempest - Theme of Justice

The video explores the theme of justice in Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', focusing on Prospero's quest for revenge against his brother Antonio. It examines how justice is portrayed as subjective and influenced by power dynamics. Ariel's role as a figure of justice is highlighted, along with the moral complexities of Prospero's actions. The video concludes by emphasizing forgiveness over vengeance, questioning the nature of justice and who determines right and wrong.

What is the primary theme discussed in the introduction of the lesson?

• The complexity of justice

• The role of nature

• The power of magic

• The importance of family

In Act 3, Scene 3, what does Prospero use to confront the noblemen?

• A sword

• A harpy

• A banquet

• A storm

How does Ariel describe the noblemen's crimes?

• As minor offenses

• As crimes against God

• As misunderstandings

• As acts of bravery

What does Prospero's control over the situation suggest about justice?

• Justice is irrelevant

• Justice is subjective

• Justice is always fair

• Justice is predetermined

What is ironic about Prospero's treatment of Ariel?

• He gives Ariel freedom immediately

• He enslaves Ariel while seeking justice for himself

• He treats Ariel better than Sycorax

• He never uses magic on Ariel

What does Prospero threaten to do to Ariel if he disobeys?

• Banish him from the island

• Take away his magic

• Trap him in a tree

• Make him a nobleman

What realization does Prospero come to by the end of the play?

• Revenge is more important than virtue

• Virtue is rarer than vengeance

• Justice is always clear-cut

• Power is the ultimate goal

How does the play resolve the conflict between Prospero and Alonso?

• Through a duel

• Through Miranda and Ferdinand's marriage

• Through a storm

• Through exile

What does Shakespeare suggest is more important than justice?

• Forgiveness

• Magic

• Power

• Wealth

What question does Shakespeare pose about justice at the end of the play?

• Is justice always fair?

• Who decides what is right and wrong?

• Can justice be bought?

• Is power more important than justice?