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Juxtaposition In The Tempest

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The portrayal of character self-discoveries and the exploration of unknown aspects of humanity within literature reveal not only the intricacies of human nature, but trigger within the audience a newfound understanding of the complexity of the human experience. Shakespeare, throughout “The Tempest” utilises the dichotomous character of Prospero to exemplify the dual nature of mankind, challenging the explicit polarisation between good and evil amongst humanity. The juxtaposition between Prospero’s cruel, commanding persona, as expressed through the vicious threats of “I’ll rack thee with old cramps, fill all thy bones with aches” as opposed to his loving protective treatment of his daughter who he fondly refers to as “cherubim” accentuates …show more content…

The inevitable human desire for power and its prevalence across all sectors of society is exemplified throughout the Tempest in the parallel narratives of the low-status characters Stephano and Trinculo and the high-status characters Antonio and Sebastian. However, their unrightful claim to a position of power in conjunction with their ineptitude is illustrated through Shakespeare’s portrayal of these characters as arrogant and foolish. With the setting of the island acting as a reflection of one’s nature, Antonio’s perception that the island is “indeed tawny” highlights his arrogant nature as his preconceived ideas of native land leads him to be unable to see beauty on island. Also, the derogatory language of “A pox o’your throat, you bawling blasphemous, uncharitable dog” and the insensitivity in the callous tone of “he receives comfort like cold porridge” highlights Sebastian’s arrogant and rude disposition, thus rejecting their system of values and exemplifying the unworthiness of corrupted individuals towards a position of

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