Power and Ambition in The Tempest
Power and Ambition in The Tempest
Lesson duration is: 55 minItems in this lesson
Power and Ambition in The Tempest
What do you already know about power in stories?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will be able to explain how Shakespeare presents power and ambition in Act 2 Scene 1 and describe the roles of the main characters.
Introduction: Act 2 Scene 1
We are focusing on lines 200-300 of Act 2 Scene 1. This scene takes place on an island after a shipwreck. Some nobles from Milan and Naples, including Alonso, Sebastian, Antonio, and Gonzalo, are talking together.
Who are the Main Characters?
• Alonso: King of Naples • Sebastian: Alonso’s brother • Antonio: Prospero’s brother, Duke of Milan • Gonzalo: Honest advisor These characters are talking about their situation and their futures.
Understanding the Theme: Power
Power is about control and influence. Ambition is the desire to achieve more or have more power. Watch how the characters talk to each other and try to gain power.
Quick Recap: What Happened So Far?
A ship carrying nobles was wrecked in a storm caused by Prospero’s magic. The nobles are lost on the island, feeling worried and confused.
Who Is Ambitious?
Antonio betrayed his brother Prospero to become Duke of Milan. He likes having power and wants more.
Antonio
Sebastian
Sebastian is tempted by Antonio to think about becoming king himself. He listens to Antonio’s plans.
Antonio’s Persuasion
Antonio tries to persuade Sebastian to kill Alonso, the king. He uses clever words to tempt Sebastian with the idea of power and becoming king.
Ambition in Action
In lines 200-300, Antonio and Sebastian decide to act on their ambition. They secretly plan to hurt others to gain power.
Character Contrast
The king, feeling sad and hopeless. He trusts Gonzalo and is unaware of the plot against him.
Honest and positive. He tries to support Alonso and keep everyone calm. He is not interested in power.
Gonzalo
Alonso
Gonzalo’s Honesty
Gonzalo stands out as an honest and trustworthy person. He encourages hope and teamwork, even when others disagree.
How Does Shakespeare Show Ambition?
Shakespeare uses dialogue and actions. Antonio and Sebastian’s plotting shows growing ambition. Gonzalo’s words offer a different view based on fairness and kindness.
Spotting Ambition in the Text
Look for words like 'throne', 'king', 'chance', and phrases about ruling or gaining power. Notice how these reveal the ambitions of Antonio and Sebastian.
Key Vocabulary
Power: Control over others Ambition: The desire to achieve success or power Persuade: To convince someone to do something Plot: A secret plan
Sentence Challenge
Use the words: power, plan, persuade.
Task
Support
Write a sentence explaining how Antonio shows ambition in this scene.
Reflection
Do you think ambition is good or bad? Why? Discuss with a partner.
Summary and Next Steps
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
