English Literature

Name: Yakini Howell Essay: The Tempest

Theatre seems to rely on spectacle With reference to ONE Shakespearean romance, discuss the extent to which you agree with this statement.

Throughout the history of the theatre, it is often the corporeal facets such as properties and costumes are thus what aid in bringing vitality to dramatic presentations. The tangible aspects of a play are often the main methods of garnering audience interest as these are what form first impressions. Shakespeares romantic comedy, The Tempest, supports this thesis as it relies heavily on the spectacular to bring life to the unfolding drama. However, language is also a necessity as it aids in creating lasting appeal as well as exploring social issues by means of thematic presentation. Although The Tempest adheres mainly to spectacle for dramatic appeal as well as plot and character development, the playwrights exploitation of language also gives life to the drama. The Tempest serves as both the title as well as a prop for Shakespeares final gift to the world of theatre. He uses this unconventional opening scene for audience appeal and, to a greater extent, to introduce the plot. There is the idea of upheaval which is brought about as major characters undergo a change in how they view others and themselves. Prospero changes after the storm he brings about with his use of the magical arts. The usurped Duke of Milan is but an extension of Prospero as he is also a magician and doting father to Miranda. However, it is the storm which ultimately allows him to discontinue his ingrained fascination of magic and fully accept his leadership role in Milan. It is here that language is exploited as this is the means in which magic is presented. There is a suspension of disbelief in the audience and the dream-like effect created such as in Ariels song to Alonzo is what establishes Prospero as powerful. The Arden Shakespeares introduction also compares the title with magic as, The Tempest itself can be compared to one form

of magic, the alchemical process.to remove impurities. Ultimately, he allows Alonzo and Antonio an increased awareness of morality by means of the tempest as well as himself as he allows himself to forgive instead of exacting revenge. The theme of usurpation is thus aptly portrayed as in essence, this can also be seen as an upheaval, as Prospero allows for the storm to return what was rightfully his. Usurpation was also a social issue especially in countries where political strain was prevalent. Costumes such as Calibans garbadine are also used to portray the idea of the spectacular. It serves chiefly as a source of humour but is also marks the occurrence of the anti masque. It serves as the unofficial meeting place for Caliban and Trinculo which brings about audience appeal. Caliban himself is also somewhat of a spectacle as to the Jacobean audience as well as the characters themselves, he would be seen as strange and other. He is presented in a bestial nature although a post colonial representation would argue that he is merely a complex character. However, it is this ambiguity of Caliban which allows Shakespeare to better portray this monster with many faces. Thus, I believe, that the character himself is a costume as he represents all that is not European; hence he is seen as uncouth. His soliloquy which is delivered in verse also aids in creating appeal as he would not have been expected to be knowledgeable. Post colonially however, he may be seen as one who is educated in what he feels he needs to know. Thus, expressing himself in the speech of heightened emotion would be due to Prosperos mild success in Europeanizing the character as well as to provide the audience with character revelation. The anti masque itself is also a source of base and bawdy humour. This begins with Stephanos scurvy tune about Kate the shrew. The performance of this song would be a spectacle to the Jacobean audience as well as the hidden Caliban and Trinculo under the gabardine. The base humour, though vulgar, presented also contributes to this appeal. Language is also used to further this spectacle as the song is rife with sexual innuendos. In comparison, the presentation of the masque which is somewhat anti-climatic furthers the idea of the tangible elements of the theatre bringing Shakespeares work to life. The fantastical presentations of gods and goddess as well as the dance of the nymphs and reapers aid in the overall success of the masque to the audience. Its prior success at court

would also be in favour of gaining audience interest as it would be popular during that era. The only discord, which is portrayed by means of an aside, is the abrupt end of the masque which in itself shows Prosperos agitation about the villains which aids in plot continuation. This manipulation of language continues into what many considers Shakespeares elegiac speech to the theatre. Magic as an entity would also be considered a spectacle presented mainly through Ariel and his songs and costume. Again, the suspension of disbelief would take over as he enchants all around to the final revealing of Prosperos ulterior plans. As a spirit, he would be expected to wear bright and showy garments to compliment his disposition. In performing performs feats such as aiding in the creation of the tempest as well as charming characters with his songs, the plot is furthered to suit Prospero, the ultimate orchestrator. However, Shakespeare also uses language in this arena as the second song to Ferdinand is a source of dramatic irony to the audience. His father is not dead but only the audience knows this and thus the plot is furthered. Theatre does rely on spectacle in order to bring life to most dramatic presentation to a very great extent. However, I believe that this is only achieved in conjunction with the playwrights manipulation and exploitation of language. While the tangible aspects further dramatic appeal as well as plot development, it is mainly through the presentation of language that characterization as well as social issues comes to life.