Monthly Archives: October 2014

The Tempest

I’m honestly not even too sure how about I feel about the Tempest. I hadn’t been familiar with this particular work of Shakespeare’s before now, but I think it’s safe to say that it’s pretty similar to some of his other works regarding his writing and stylistic choices . Prospero is an interesting, if not especially likable, character. I don’t feel like sending your daughter’s love interest to *prison* because *you* feel like their relationship is progressing too quickly is an appropriate way to behave. I think the men in Shakespeare’s works are typically pretty oppressive, controlling, egotistical, and otherwise follow the standards of what was deemed to be an acceptable level of “masculinity” in that era. Which is, admittedly, a bit off-topic. The story itself was pretty compelling, but I felt no real connection to the characters. Some people might argue that the struggles and emotions expressed by Shakespeare are relatable to the modern man because they are intrinsically human, and that we might experience various degrees of similar emotions/desicion-making processes; but I am not one of those people. And despite knowing that Shakespeare’s works are revered masterpieces as far as literature goes – I will probably never get over the fact that I essentially need a separate translation just to get through his works. 

 

TL;DR : I thought the play was interesting enough, but I’m not really Shakespeare’s biggest fan.