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Key Quotes from Shakespeare's The Tempest

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120 views12 pages

Key Quotes from Shakespeare's The Tempest

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hellokonichiwa24
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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ANNOTATIONS

1. O, I have suffered
With those that I saw suffer.
(Miranda, Act 1 Scene 2)

Introduction: william shakespeare (1564- 1616) was born in stadford is


regarded as the most popular and important writer in the history of english
literature. The elizabethan era was also known as the “shakespearean era”.
He is also known for his plays and poems, especially his sonnets.

These lines are taken from “the tempest” a play by shakespeare. These lines
are spoken by miranda in Act 1, scene 2. "The Tempest" by William
Shakespeare is a tale of magic, revenge, and reconciliation. Prospero, a
sorcerer and the rightful Duke of Milan, uses his magical powers to conjure
a storm and torment the survivors of a shipwreck, including his treacherous
brother, Antonio, and the King of Naples.

In the context: Act 1, Scene 2. Miranda is a very empathetic and sympathetic


person and feels the suffering of those on board the ship caught in the wild
tempest. She believes that they have drowned. But if she were a god with
power, she tells her father Prospero, instead of sinking the ship she would
sink the seas so that the ship and passengers could be saved.

Conclusion : Through a series of magical interventions, familial conflicts are


resolved, and the play concludes with Prospero granting freedom to his
spirit-servant, Ariel, and preparing to leave the island

2. My library was dukedom large enough.


(Prospero, Act 1 Scene 2)

In the context: Act 1, scene 2. Prospero was negligent in his responsibilities


as the duke of Milan. His books, his library of learning, and his study of
magic was all he wanted. Because of this he put his brother in charge and
eventually was usurped.

3. Ferdinand, With hair up-staring – then like reeds, not hair –


Was the first man that leaped; cried ‘Hell is empty
And all the devils are here.’
(Ariel, Act 1 Scene 2)

In the context: Ariel describes the chaotic scene of the shipwreck, emphasizing
Ferdinand's dramatic reaction as he leaps from the ship and exclaims "Hell
is empty And all the devils are here." This quote captures the intensity and
turmoil of the moment, reflecting the disarray and fear experienced by the
characters during the storm and shipwreck .

4. For I am all the subjects that you have,


Which first was mine own king.
(Caliban, Act 1 Scene 2)

In the context: Caliban expresses his resentment towards Prospero, the


sorcerer who has enslaved him. Caliban reflects on his past freedom and
authority over the island, emphasizing that he was once the ruler of the land
before Prospero arrived. This quote encapsulates Caliban's sense of loss,
betrayal, and longing for autonomy, highlighting the complex power
dynamics and themes of colonization and subjugation present in the play.

5. Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows.


(Trinculo, Act 2 Scene 2)

In the context: reflects Trinculo's realization that difficult circumstances can


lead to unexpected and unusual associations. The phrase "strange
bedfellows" is often used to describe strange or unexpected partnerships,
friendships, or circumstances that one has to accept. In the play, Trinculo
utters these words as he seeks shelter from a storm and finds himself in
close proximity to Caliban, whom he initially mistakes for a strange fish.

6. Hast thou not dropped from heaven?


(Caliban, Act 2 Scene 2)

In the context: Caliban is addressing Stephano, whom he mistakes for a divine


being due to his intoxication and the influence of his desire for freedom
from Prospero's control. This quote reflects Caliban's willingness to align
himself with anyone who he believes can help him gain his freedom and
seek revenge against Prospero.

7. I am your wife, if you will marry me:


If not, I'll die your maid: to be your fellow
You may deny me, but I'll be your servant,
Whether you will or no.
(Miranda, Act 3 Scene 1)

In the context: Miranda expresses her deep affection and loyalty to Ferdinand.
These words reflect Miranda's unconditional love for Ferdinand and her
willingness to be with him in any capacity, even if he does not reciprocate
her feelings. It also portrays Miranda's determination to stand by Ferdinand,
emphasizing her steadfast commitment and selflessness in her love for
him.

8. The clouds methought would open and show riches


Ready to drop upon me, that when I waked,
I cried to dream again.
(Caliban, Act 3 Scene 2)

In the context: Caliban describes the enchanting and surreal experiences he


has on the island. This quote reflects Caliban's vivid and dream-like
perception of the island's sounds and atmosphere, conveying a sense of
wonder and longing.
9. Our revels now are ended. These our actors,
As I foretold you, were all spirits and
Are melted into air, into thin air;
And, like the baseless fabric of this vision,
The cloud-capp'd towers, the gorgeous palaces,
The solemn temples, the great globe itself,
Yea, all which it inherit, shall dissolve,
And, like this insubstantial pageant faded,
Leave not a rack behind. We are such stuff
As dreams are made on: and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep.
(Prospero, Act 4 Scene 1)

In the context: Prospero speaks these words as he reflects on the transitory


nature of human existence and the illusory quality of life. This soliloquy
captures Prospero's philosophical outlook, emphasizing the fleeting and
ephemeral nature of human experiences and accomplishments. The
imagery of "cloud-capp'd towers, the gorgeous palaces, the solemn
temples" emphasizes the impermanence of material things and the
transient nature of worldly power and grandeur. Prospero's words convey
the idea that life itself is akin to a dream, and that all human endeavors and
achievements are ultimately temporary and insubstantial, leading to the
inevitable conclusion of mortality.

10. Where the bee sucks, there suck I:


In a cowslip's bell I lie:
There I couch when owls do cry.
On the bat's back I do fly
After summer merrily.
Merrily, merrily, shall I live now
Under the blossom that hangs on the bough.
(Ariel, Act 5 Scene 1)

In the context: Ariel expresses his joy and freedom after being released from
Prospero's service. These lines reflect Ariel's delight in embracing nature
and the simple pleasures of the natural world. The imagery of Ariel enjoying
the company of bees and finding solace in the tranquility of a cowslip's bell
highlights his newfound freedom and his eagerness to live a carefree and
joyful existence.

11. O, wonder!
How many goodly creatures are there here!
How beauteous mankind is! O brave new world,
That has such people in't.
(Miranda, Act 5 Scene 1)

In the context: Miranda expresses her astonishment and delight upon


encountering a larger group of people for the first time. Raised in seclusion
on an island with few human interactions, Miranda's exclamation reflects
her genuine optimism and hope for new beginnings as she marvels at the
beauty and diversity of humanity. This moment captures Miranda's
innocence and naivety, as well as her genuine excitement at the prospect of
engaging with the world beyond her isolated upbringing.

12.As you from crimes would pardoned be,


Let your indulgence set me free.
(Prospero, Epilogue)

In the context: Prospero's epilogue marks the conclusion of the play and his
plea for release from his magical powers and the confines of the island.
This poignant statement reflects Prospero's desire to be freed from his past
and the burdens of his magical abilities, as well as his hope for forgiveness
and a new beginning. By invoking the audience's indulgence and drawing a
parallel between their potential for pardon and his own liberation, Prospero
seeks a sense of closure and absolution, emphasizing the themes of
forgiveness and redemption that permeate the play's narrative

13. "Some kinds of baseness are nobly undergone, and most poor matters
point to rich ends. This my mean task would be as heavy to me as odious,
but the mistress which I serve quickens what’s dead and makes my labours
pleasures." Ferdinand, Act 3, Scene 1

In the context: Ferdinand expresses the transformative power of love and its
ability to elevate even the most menial tasks. Despite the physical toil of his
labor, Ferdinand finds solace and joy in serving Miranda, emphasizing how
his love for her imbues his work with meaning and turns his efforts into
pleasures. This passage captures Ferdinand's devotion to Miranda and his
willingness to endure hardship for the sake of their love, highlighting the
theme of love's ability to inspire and uplift even in challenging
circumstances.

14."There they hoist us, to cry to th’ sea that roared to us, to sigh to th’ winds
whose pity, sighing back again, did us but loving wrong." -Prospero, Act 1,
Scene 2.

In the context: Prospero reflects on the events that led to their arrival on the
island. He describes how they were set adrift at sea, and while the sea and
winds seemed to treat them harshly, there was an underlying sense of care
and concern in their actions. This passage captures the complex nature of
their experience, where seemingly harsh treatment was accompanied by an
underlying sense of benevolence and care, reflecting the contradictory and
multifaceted nature of their circumstances.

15. "Be not afeard. The isle is full of noises, sounds, and sweet airs, that give
delight and hurt not." Caliban, Act 3, Scene 2.

In the context: Caliban reassures Stephano and Trinculo, describing the


enchanting and harmonious nature of the island. He speaks of the island
being filled with captivating sounds and pleasant melodies that bring joy
without causing harm. This passage captures Caliban's deep connection to
the island and his understanding of its mystical and alluring qualities,
emphasizing the contrast between the island's natural beauty and the
potential for danger and treachery that exists within it.
16. "There be some sports are painful, and their labour delight in them sets
off." -Ferdinand, Act 3, Scene 1

In the context: Ferdinand reflects on the idea that certain activities may involve
hardship, yet the joy derived from engaging in them outweighs the
difficulties. This sentiment underscores Ferdinand's willingness to endure
challenging tasks for the sake of his love for Miranda, emphasizing the
theme of love's ability to inspire and uplift even in the face of adversity.

17.sometimes a thousand twangling instruments will hum about mine ears,


and sometime voices that, if I then had waked after long sleep will make me
sleep again; and then in dreaming the clouds methought would open and
show riches ready to drop upon me, that when I waked I cried to dream
again." Caliban, Act 3, Scene 2.

In the context: Caliban vividly describes the enchanting and immersive nature
of the island's soundscape. He portrays a sensory experience filled with
captivating music and voices that have the power to lull him into a
dreamlike state, where he envisions the revelation of abundant riches. This
passage captures Caliban's deep connection to the mystical and alluring
qualities of the island, emphasizing the transformative and captivating
nature of its environment.

18. "Th’ occasion speaks thee, and my strong imagination sees a crown
dropping upon thy head." Antonio, Act 2, Scene 1.

In the context: Antonio is speaking to Sebastian, suggesting that opportunity is


knocking at his door and he envisions a crown coming to rest on
Sebastian's head. With King Alonso having fallen asleep, Antonio is subtly
hinting to Sebastian that this is his chance to seize the throne by potentially
eliminating his brother.

19. "I perceive these lords at this encounter do so much admire that they
devour their reason and scarce think their eyes do offices of truth, their
words are natural breath." Prospero, Act 5, Scene 1
In the context: Prospero reflects on the sense of wonder that has affected
Alonso and his retinue during their time on the island. He observes that the
lords are so overwhelmed by admiration and astonishment that they have
lost their ability to think clearly and discern reality.

20. That a monster should be such a natural!" Trinculo, Act 3, Scene 2

In the context: Trinculo expresses his incredulity at the natural behavior of


Caliban, referring to him as a "monster." This line reflects Trinculo's surprise
at Caliban's seemingly unremarkable actions, highlighting the contrast
between Caliban's appearance and his behavior.

21 "Be collected. No more amazement. Tell your piteous heart there’s no harm
done." Prospero, Act 1, Scene 2.

In the context: Prospero is addressing Miranda, urging her to remain calm and
assuring her that no harm has been done. This moment occurs after the
violent tempest, and Prospero seeks to comfort Miranda, who is distressed
by the suffering she witnessed during the storm. His words reflect his
protective and caring nature towards his daughter, as he endeavors to
alleviate her distress and reassure her of their safety

22.” If thou more murmur’st, I will rend an oak and peg thee in his knotty
entrails till thou hast howled away twelve winters." Prospero, Act 1, Scene 2

In the context: Prospero shows his cruel and tyrannical side in response to his
servant Ariel expressing concern that he will not receive his promised
freedom 1. This threat illustrates both Prospero's bad temper and his
domineering nature, as he does not tolerate disobedience from his inferiors
and relies on threats of cruelty to maintain control
23."Yea, all which it inherit, shall dissolve; And, like this insubstantial pageant
faded, leave not a rack behind. We are such stuff as dreams are made on,
and our little life is rounded with a sleep." Prospero, Act 4, Scene 1

In the context: Prospero reflects on the transient nature of human existence


and the impermanence of worldly possessions and achievements. He uses
the metaphor of a fleeting performance, likening life to a temporary and
illusory spectacle that ultimately vanishes without a trace. Prospero's
contemplation emphasizes the ephemeral and fragile nature of human life,
suggesting that our existence is akin to the substance of dreams, and
ultimately concludes with the peaceful slumber of death.

24. "Me poor man, my library was dukedom large enough." Prospero, Act 1,
Scene 2.

In the context: Prospero reflects on his past as the Duke of Milan and his deep
attachment to his scholarly pursuits. This statement conveys Prospero's
sentiment that his intellectual pursuits and knowledge were more than
sufficient for him, akin to the vastness and significance of a dukedom. It
also suggests that Prospero was more devoted to his studies and magical
arts than to the responsibilities of governing Milan, ultimately leading to his
downfall when he entrusted the governance to his brother, Antonio, who
subsequently usurped his position.

25. "Our revels now are ended. These our actors, as I foretold you, were all
spirits, and are melted into air, into thin air; and, like the baseless fabric of
this vision, the cloud-capped towers, the gorgeous palaces, the solemn
temples, the great globe itself, yea, all which it inherit, shall dissolve; and,
like this insubstantial pageant faded, leave not a rack behind." Prospero, Act
4, Scene 1
In the context: Prospero reflects on the ephemeral nature of human existence
and the transient quality of worldly achievements. This passage captures
Prospero's contemplation on the illusory and fleeting nature of life, using
vivid imagery to convey the idea that all material possessions and
accomplishments are ultimately impermanent and will fade away without
leaving a trace

26. "We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded
with a sleep." Prospero, Act 4, Scene 1

In the context: Prospero reflects on the transient and illusory nature of human
existence. This profound statement encapsulates the idea that human life,
like a dream, is fleeting and ultimately concludes with the peaceful slumber
of death.

27. "Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows. Trinculo, Act 2, Scene

In the context: this phrase is used by Trinculo to express the idea that
challenging or difficult circumstances can lead individuals to form
unexpected or unusual alliances or associations. The metaphorical use of
"strange bedfellows" in this context refers to the notion that adversity or
misery can compel people to interact with others whom they would not
normally have any dealings with. Trinculo's utterance captures the theme of
unexpected partnerships and circumstances that arise in the face of
adversity, adding depth to the portrayal of human interactions within the
play.

28. "You taught me language, and my profit on ’t is I know how to curse. The
red plague rid you for learning me your language!" Caliban, Act 1, Scene 2.
In the context: Caliban expresses his resentment towards Prospero and
Miranda for their attempts to civilize and educate him. This quote reflects
Caliban's anger and frustration at being subjugated and stripped of his
autonomy, as well as his belief that the knowledge of language has only
enabled him to express his curses and ill will towards his oppressors.

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