1.
Felix’s Downfall and Themes of Betrayal and Revenge: Felix’s initial downfall,
marked by his expulsion from the Makeshiweg Theatre Festival, sets the stage for
themes of betrayal and revenge. His betrayal by Tony, his former colleague, fuels his
desire for retribution. As Felix reflects, “Tony betrayed me, and I will betray him” 1.
This betrayal becomes the driving force behind his elaborate revenge plan, which
unfolds within the confines of a prison.
2. Isolated Existence and Themes of Confinement and Transformation: As a
teacher in the Fletcher Correctional Institute, Felix’s isolated existence mirrors his
emotional confinement. The prison walls symbolise both physical and emotional
barriers. However, it is within this restricted space that Felix finds an unexpected
opportunity for transformation. Teaching Shakespeare to inmates becomes his
lifeline, allowing him to channel his grief and guilt into creative expression. Through
teaching, he discovers redemption and a chance at renewal.
3. Ambitious Revenge Plan and Themes of Justice and Redemption: Felix’s
ambitious plan to stage a production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” within the
prison reflects themes of justice and redemption. By using theatre as a tool for
revenge, he seeks to right past wrongs. His determination to create a masterpiece
becomes a path toward personal redemption. As he says, “I will make my own
Tempest” 1.
4. Choice of “The Tempest” and Exploration of Power Dynamics: The selection of
“The Tempest” as the play within the play is deliberate. The original play explores
themes of power, freedom, and colonisation. By adapting it, Felix highlights the
parallels between his own life and the characters in Shakespeare’s work. Caliban,
the oppressed island native, becomes a powerful symbol of resistance and identity
within Felix’s production.
5. Interactions with the Ghost of Miranda and Themes of Grief and Reconciliation:
Felix’s encounters with the ghost of his deceased daughter, Miranda, deepen themes
of grief, guilt, and reconciliation. Through these ethereal conversations, he grapples
with his past mistakes and seeks forgiveness. The ghostly presence serves as a
catalyst for his emotional healing and eventual self-discovery.
6. Rehearsals and Second Chances: Felix’s rehearsals for “The Tempest” within the
prison highlight themes of creativity and collaboration. The inmates become his
ensemble, and the act of rehearsing becomes a metaphor for second chances.
Through the transformative power of art, Felix and his students find hope and
purpose.
7. Caliban’s Role and Themes of Oppression and Identity: In Felix’s production,
Caliban embodies themes of oppression, identity, and resistance. His portrayal
becomes a commentary on the marginalised voices within society. By giving Caliban
agency and complexity, Felix challenges the power dynamics both on and off the
stage.
8. Unravelling Revenge Plans and Themes of Control and Fate: When Felix’s
revenge plans begin to unravel unexpectedly, he confronts the limits of control. The
unforeseen consequences force him to question whether he can truly manipulate
fate. This pivotal moment underscores the novel’s exploration of destiny and the
unpredictability of human actions.
9. Internal Struggles and Emotional Breakthroughs: Felix’s confrontation with past
trauma leads to emotional breakthroughs. His forgiveness of himself and others
becomes a central theme. Through self-reflection, he sheds guilt and embraces the
possibility of redemption.
10. Impact of the Storm Scene: The storm scene in Felix’s prison production mirrors the
characters’ inner turmoil and external conflicts. It becomes a metaphor for chaos,
transformation, and the cleansing power of art. Just as in Shakespeare’s original
play, the storm serves as a catalyst for change.
