Perform your own analysis. In the play The Tempest, Prospero is the Duke of Milan, while in the film Prospera
(played by Helen Mirren) is the Duchess of Milan, a gender change that affects the protagonist’s relationship to daughter Miranda and to everyone else on the island. When reading the play and watching the film, consider the ways in which the gender of Prospero/a changes our perception
of the character, if at all. Develop your own thesis about the character of Prospero in the play, and then analyze closely at least two scenes (or portions of scenes) from the play and at least two scenes from the film that support your thesis about the effect of gender on this character (and those s/he encounters). Remember that when we watch rather than read a play, we are privy not only to the character’s words but to his or her tone, demeanor, and gestures. Compare the
portrayals of the two protagonists through an analysis of their motivations, actions, and
interactions with others as exemplified in Shakespeare’s language and in director Taymor’s vision of the play through film.
Sample Solution