Argument #1 Roadmap
The Tempest
Critical Question: How is Prospero’s revenge portrayed in the text? Specifically, is it for himself or for his daughter?
Hypothesis: Prospero is trying to gain power again for his own personal interests.
Evidence:
1) Prospero’s tirade of keeping Ariel as his servant in Act I.
2) Reference to his tale in a power struggle with his brother in Act I.
3) Scheming behind Miranda’s back when she first sights Ferdinand in Act 1.2.
Perspectives:
1) A man who truly wants his daughter to receive her birth rights as the daughter of a duke.
2) A man who is spiteful after losing his influence and power over others.
Can make other references:
Frankenstein: Who is actually more responsible for the other’s demise—Frankenstein or his “monster?”
Space Traders: Politicians overexerting their authority to do what’s “best” for their country.
