Question

Read this selection of dialogue from Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

Prospero. How now? moody? What is't thou canst demand?

Ariel. My liberty.

Prospero. Before the time be out? no more!

Ariel. I prithee,
Remember I have done thee worthy service . . .

How does this dialogue help further the dramatic action of the play?
A. It sets the scene.
B. It shows harmony between characters who are good friends.
C. It reveals to the audience what one character is thinking.
D. It gives important information about the relationship between characters.

Answer 1

D. It gives important information about the relationship between characters.

Step-by-step explanation:

William Shakespeare's "The Tempest" is a play that revolves around the love story of Miranda and Ferdinand, along with the themes of forgiveness, betrayal, love, and magic. The story is set on an island where the former Duke Prospero and his daughter are banished.

The given excerpt is from Act 1 scene ii of the play where Ariel, the 'slave' sprite of Prospero asked to be released early considering he has done all that's been ordered of him to do. He has obediently followed all orders which is why he deserves to be released from the bondage "before the time be out".

This scene/ dialogue is important as it provides the dramatic action of the play by revealing the relationship between the two characters. Thus, the correct answer is option D.