Key Themes

Disguise/clothing

Prospero and Ariel in the play and a number of other characters also disguise their true selves.

Animals

Common in Shakespeare’s plays, animals are used to describe many characters, particularly Caliban to reflect his earthy nature.

 Politics

Dominates all the groups.

 Leadership/power

There are many potential leaders in the play, but few good ones.

 Magic/ books

The key to Prospero’s downfall and his revenge.

Earth, air

Links to Caliban and Ariel, who links to the theme of magic.

Slavery/ imprisonment

Prospero uses Caliban and Ariel as slaves/servants.

Justice/forgiveness

Prospero is mainly responsible for these.