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6/4/25
Tempest’s script
SLIDE 1: Title Slide
Script:
“Good [morning/afternoon], everyone. Today, I’ll be talking about The Tempest, one
of William Shakespeare’s last and most magical plays. My focus will be on the key
themes of power, revenge, and forgiveness, and how they shape the characters and
the message of the play.”
SLIDE 2: Background Info
Script:
‘The Tempest was written around 1610 or 1611, during the final stage of
Shakespeare’s career. It’s a romantic drama with magical elements, but also serious
themes like justice, freedom, and betrayal. The story is set on a mysterious island
where strange and powerful things happen, thanks to Prospero's magic.’
SLIDE 3: Plot Summary (Part 1)
Script:
‘Prospero was the Duke of Milan, but his own brother, Antonio, betrayed him and
took his title. Prospero and his young daughter Miranda were sent away on a small
boat and ended up on a remote island. There, Prospero became a powerful
magician and took control of two beings:
Ariel, a spirit he freed, and
Caliban, a native of the island who resents being enslaved.’
SLIDE 4: Plot Summary (Part 2)
Script:
‘Years later, Prospero learns that Antonio and other enemies are nearby on a ship.
Using magic, he causes a tempest, or storm, to shipwreck them on the island.
At first, he plans revenge. But after testing and observing them, Prospero chooses
to forgive.
He frees Ariel, pardons his enemies, and gives up his magical powers to return
home.’
SLIDE 5: Main Characters
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6/4/25
Tempest’s script
Script:
‘Let’s look at the key characters:
Prospero is the main figure—wise, powerful, but also proud.
Miranda, his daughter, is innocent and curious about the world.
Ariel, the spirit, serves Prospero but longs to be free.
Caliban is a bitter but interesting character—seen as a “monster” by others.
Antonio, the villain, represents betrayal.
And Ferdinand, who falls in love with Miranda, shows the next generation’s hope.’
SLIDE 6: Theme – Power and Control
Script:
‘A major theme is power.
Prospero uses magic to control the island, the weather, and people’s actions.
He commands Ariel and Caliban. He creates illusions.
But this power isolates him. It raises the question: Is Prospero wise—or just another
tyrant?
Shakespeare makes us think about how power should be used: for control or for
compassion.’
SLIDE 7: Theme – Forgiveness and Redemption
Script:
‘At the end of the play, Prospero has a chance to take revenge—but he doesn’t.
Instead, he chooses mercy.
He says, “The rarer action is in virtue than in vengeance,” meaning it’s more noble
to forgive.
He frees Ariel, forgives Antonio, and promises to break his magic staff.
Shakespeare seems to say that true strength is the power to forgive.’
SLIDE 8: Important Quotes
Script:
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Tempest’s script
‘Here are some quotes that show the heart of the play:
“The rarer action is in virtue than in vengeance.” This shows Prospero’s change.
“Let your indulgence set me free.” This is Prospero’s final line, asking the audience
to forgive him, just like he forgave others.
Caliban also says, “You taught me language, and my profit on’t is I know how to
curse.” It shows how power can hurt as well as help.’
SLIDE 9: Your Argument
Script:
‘So here is my main argument:
Shakespeare shows that real power is not about controlling others, but about
controlling yourself.
Prospero begins the play full of anger. But by the end, he realizes that peace only
comes through forgiveness.
He gives up magic—and that is his most powerful act.’
SLIDE 10: What We Can Learn
Script:
‘What can we learn from The Tempest today?
Power should be used wisely—not for revenge.
Forgiveness brings peace, both to others and to ourselves.
Even people who do wrong may deserve a second chance.
These lessons are still very relevant in our world today.’
SLIDE 11: Conclusion
Script:
‘To sum up:
The Tempest is a story of betrayal and magic—but also a journey toward
forgiveness.
Prospero shows us that letting go of anger is not weakness—it’s true strength.
That’s what makes this play so timeless.’
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Tempest’s script
SLIDE 12: Thank You / Questions
Script:
‘Thank you so much for listening! Do you have any questions or thoughts about The
Tempest or what Shakespeare was trying to say?’
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