The Tempest Play Reflection

The most enjoyable part of a live reading of “The Tempest” was the powerful and mesmerizing performance of the character of Prospero, who is a complex and fascinating character with magical abilities. Additionally, the interactions between Prospero and Ariel, the airy spirit, can be captivating to watch due to the magical elements and the dynamics between the characters. Another enjoyable aspect could be the comedic relief provided by characters like Trinculo and Stephano, who bring humor and lightness to the play, adding an entertaining element to the performance. And the music and singing by the actor who played Ariel was so smoothing. The least enjoyable part of a live reading of “The Tempest” was the potentially slow pacing of certain scenes, when some of the senses failed to maintain the audience’s engagement throughout the performance. And the complex language and themes of the play are challenging to follow, leading to a lack of enjoyment if they struggle to understand the dialogue or the underlying messages of the story.

Watching the characters on stage allows for visual cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and costumes, which can enhance the emotional depth of the characters and their interactions, appealing to the audience’s pathos (emotions). The physical positioning of characters on stage, their movements, and interactions can alter the power dynamics and relationships between characters, affecting the logos (logic) of their actions and decisions.  The energy and atmosphere of a live performance can create a sense of immediacy and connection between the audience and the characters, enhancing the audience’s engagement with the story and the rhetorical impact of the narrative.