Title literally says it all
Can anyone point out some unexpected/carefully planned discoveries, AT ALL
Question is: "Weather a discovery is unexpected or emerges from careful planning it can still reveal surprising consequences"
Hi,
So SSSS discussed some really good points, but I just have a few more ideas to share.
As mentioned, The Tempest is really founded on the ramifications of Prospero's careful planning as shown through his complete control of the events on the island. Through his controlling behaviour, facilitated by his magic, he aims for the other characters i.e. Alonso, Antonio to discover their own flaws and develop remorse. However, what Shakespeare demonstrates in this play, is that despite one's calculations, we can cannot evoke remorse from others and instead, one's autonomy and initiative is key to self reflection, thus that it would be futile to evoke remorse in others as evidenced by Antonio's indifference at the end of the play.
So, if I was evaluating this statement, I would say something like: "Although carefully planned discoveries may lead to profound change in the individual and their world, undoubtedly, unexpected discoveries are integral in offering surprising new insights into one's self identity and the value of relationships."
^Note that I don't think you should fully discount planned discoveries, as remember that Prospero's plans did actually engender Alonso's change.
The way that I structured my essays for AOS involved an exploration of self-discovery and then discovery about the world/relationships.
So in relation to your question:
Consequences on one's identity:
-Despite, Prospero's orchestration of events, he is unexpectedly faced with the detriment of his own pursuit and value for magic. Although he is confronted with the immorality of his manipulation, this unexpected discovery prompts him to develop a new identity, devoid of magic and control, also accepting the detriment of his pursuit for knowledge and power.
-However, Prospero's careful planning evoked profound change in Alonso, who was able to reflect on his own immorality (usurpation) and seek virtue.
Some quotes/ Techniques:
- Dramatic irony elucidates his careful planning e.g. "it goes on I see as my soul prompts it"-> later the symbolism of "break his staff" and "drown the book" reflects his renouncement and the consequence of his unexpected self realisation
- Alonso's remorseful tone -> "pardon (him) (his) wrongs"
Consequences on one's views on the world:
-Prospero discovers the futility of his power and meticulous planning in evoking empathy from others, and comes to appreciate the importance of forgiveness.
-Caliban also experiences an unexpected discovery into his own foolishness in believing the "gods", Stephano and Trinculo. This is in light of his preconceived idea of 'freedom' outside of Prospero's control, which reconciles his relationship with Prospero (consequence on relationships).
Some quotes/ Techniques:
- Rhyming couplet-> "as your crimes pardoned be let your indulgence set me free" -> As Prospero unexpectedly learns that flaws are universal to all human beings and comes to value forgiveness
-Caliban's reassuring tone within "I'll be wise hereafter"-> unexpected considering his plans to kill Prospero and thus highlights redemptive power of discoveries.
Hope this helps