This resource is designed as a reference guide for teachers. We have listed the major themes and motifs within The Tempest and provided examples of scenes where you can study them.
Themes
Power and control and the nature of just and productive leadership.Some related scenes:
Act 1 Scene 2: Prospero tells Miranda of his betrayal by Alonso and Antonio and explains that he has instructed Ariel to shipwreck the King's party; Ariel challenges Prospero; Prospero lambastes Caliban and punishes him for his defiance.
Betrayal, revenge and forgiveness, the consequences of each and the journey from turbulence to harmony. Some related scenes:
Act 1 Scene 2: Prospero tells Miranda of his betrayal by Alonso and Antonio and explains that he has instructed Ariel to shipwreck the King's party.
Motifs
Magic as a manifestation of power and control. For example:
'And pluck my magic garment from me' Act 1 Scene 2
Sounds and music as helping to create the spirit of the magic island and giving atmosphere to key moments of action. For example:
'A tempestuous noise of thunder and lightning heard‘ Act 1 Scene1