The Politics of Healing

Reading: Shakespeare, The Tempest Acts 4-5.

Writing: I’m using the same prompts from last time, but applied to the play’s resolution in Acts 4 and 5. Respond to ONE of the following prompts. Keep your response short, posting as a reply under the appropriate heading in the comments section:

1. In lecture I suggested that you watch for moments that play upon kingship and other social orders as shared fictions. Quote such a moment and comment on the idealism, folly or cynicism of the enterprise.
2. In lecture I also admonished you to watch for moments where theatrical performance is said to have a educative or moral function. Quote such a moment and comment on the idealism, folly or cynicism of the enterprise.
3. Shakespeare can be weird. Call our attention to an oddity in need of explanation.