Question

Read the lines from The Tempest, in which Prospero talks to Miranda about the illusory shipwreck.

PROSPERO
’Tis time
I should inform thee farther. Lend thy hand,
And pluck my magic garment from me.—So: [Lays down his mantle.]
Lie there, my art. Wipe thou thine eyes; have comfort.
The direful spectacle of the wreck, which touch’d
The very virtue of compassion in thee,
I have with such provision in mine art
So safely order’d, that there is no soul,
No, not so much perdition as an hair
Betid to any creature in the vessel
Which thou heard’st cry, which thou saw’st sink. Sit down;
For thou must now know farther.

Which responses most clearly illustrate how Prospero’s description of Miranda’s emotional state establishes the tone of the passage?

(Select all that apply.)

The Tempest

A) Prospero’s acknowledgment of Miranda’s understanding of the shipwreck portrays a desolate and helpless tone, as he attempts to present a lighter perspective.
B) Prospero’s acknowledgment of Miranda’s emotions portrays a calm and thoughtful tone, as he desires to quiet her mind.

Answer 1

B) Prospero’s acknowledgment of Miranda’s emotions portrays a calm and thoughtful tone, as he desires to quiet her mind.

The passage suggests that Prospero is aware of Miranda's emotional state and wants to comfort her. He acknowledges that the shipwreck was a "direful spectacle" that touched her "virtue of compassion." However, he reassures her that he has used his magic to ensure that no harm has come to anyone on the ship. Prospero's words and actions establish a tone of calmness and thoughtfulness as he tries to ease Miranda's distress. Therefore, option B is the correct response. Option A does not accurately reflect the tone established by Prospero's words and actions in the passage.

Step-by-step explanation: