The Tempest Review

Messages: The main thrust of The Tempest is revenge, as Prospera tries to get even with those who wronged her years before. She plays cruel tricks on her visitors and eventually gets everything she wants. Most of the characters behave selfishly and squabble amongst themselves. There are no consequences for any of this behavior. Prince Ferdinand and Miranda are the only ones who rise above this, coming across as both naïve and redeemed by true love.

Role models: Prospera -- a powerful woman and a single mother -- is an interesting role model, if not exactly a positive one: She withholds information from her daughter and is bent on revenge. And aside from the story's pair of young lovers, there are no other admirable characters; most of the players are selfish and/or cruel and pay no consequences for their behavior.

Violence: No real fighting, but there are threats and shouting. Sebastian and Antonio draw their swords in an attempt to kill their king while he sleeps. There are also some frightening images when Ariel appears as a "black angel of death" and as Prospera conjures up some of her black magic.

Sex: Prince Ferdinand and Miranda declare their love for each other and are seen kissing. Ariel and Caliban are seen wearing very little clothing. Caliban wears a loincloth, and Ariel's naked buttocks are on view from time to time.

Language: One use of "damned."

Consumerism: Not an issue

Drinking, drugs and smoking: Stephano turns up stumbling drunk, carrying a bottle of booze. He shares it with Trinculo and then gives some to the monster, Caliban. Caliban has never tasted alcohol before, and he becomes instantly enchanted and overcome by it; he pledges his servitude to Stephano in exchange for more.