Abstract

The Tempest, written by William Shakespeare, is probably the most popular play among his last years. It conveys Shakespeare’s appreciation for reason, wisdom and emphasizes the significance of repentance.

This thesis aims to analyze the narrative structure of the play, which develops in a shape of letter U, termed as “U-shaped narrative structure”, which is interpreted by Northrop Frye in his The Great Code. The U-shaped narrative structure of the play can be seen in two aspects. One is the U-shaped structure in the life experience of Prospero; the other is the U-shaped structure in the betrayal and repentance process of Prospero’s enemies. 

The U-shaped narrative structure employed by Shakespeare is a reflection of his time, in which reason and wisdom are valued. It also shows Shakespeare’s sincere hope for social harmony.

Key words:  The Tempest; U-shaped narrative structure; reason; repentance

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1 Introduction-1

2 Northrop Frye and the U-shaped narrative structure-2

3 The way down in The Tempest-3

3.1 Antonio’s betrayal: his submission to greed-3

3.2 Prospero’s misery: a valuable suffering-4

4 The lowest point in The Tempest-6

4.1 Killing plans: the satisfaction of one’s immoral desire-6

4.2 Revenge: the punishment on the soul-8

5 The way up in The Tempest-9

5.1 Repentance: the chance of returning to the happy life-9

5.2 Redemption: salvation for Prospero as well as for his enemies-11

6 Conclusion-12

References-14